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Hospitality meets purpose in Lantern Columbia, a stunning adaptive reuse project turning a historic firehouse into a boutique hotel that celebrates inclusion and community. In this episode, Glenn Haussman and Anthony Melchiorri talk with David Tart, Managing Partner at Raines Company, about how the Lantern will partner with the University of South Carolina's Carolina LIFE program to employ individuals with intellectual disabilities and create a model for inclusive hospitality. From design and construction to culture and mission, David explains how hotels like Lantern Columbia show that doing good and doing well aren't mutually exclusive — they're connected. What we cover
Sometimes you have to believe it before you see it. On this episode of Impact Without Limits, Brian and Dale Karmie break down the axiom: “Act As If”. They discuss how moving forward with confidence — even before all the details fall into place — can break through fear, hesitation, and analysis paralysis.Through stories from ForeverLawn's journey, including NASCAR sponsorships, the launch of K9Grass in Europe, and potential projects with the Cleveland Browns, the brothers reveal how acting in faith creates momentum and opens doors that might otherwise stay closed.Blending humor, leadership insight, and real-life lessons, this episode inspires listeners to take initiative, trust the process, and act as if they're already living the success they're striving for.Episode Highlights: The Act As If Mindset.Breaking analysis paralysis.Leadership in motion.The NASCAR story.Taking calculated risks.K9Grass in Europe.The Cleveland Browns project.Partnering with the Harvest Crusade.Sports and mindset.Links Mentioned in Episode/Find More on ForeverLawn:www.foreverlawn.comImpact Without Limits Instagram: @impact_withoutlimitsForeverLawn's Instagram: @foreverlawnincGet Grass Without Limits HereVisit our show notes page HERESubscribe to Our Newsletter HEREDale's Instagram: @dalekarmieBrian's Instagram: @bkarmieFind Our Shorts on the ForeverLawn YouTube ChannelLearn More About the Ohio Harvest Crusade HereThis show has been produced by Adkins Media Co.
Rebroadcast | Partnering With Creation
How Outsourced Accounting Empowers SMBs: Insights from Rhett Molitor, CEO of Basis 365 AccountingIn this episode, host Josh Elledge interviews Rhett Molitor, CEO and co-founder of Basis 365 Accounting, to explore how outsourced accounting is transforming small and mid-sized businesses. Rhett shares how fractional accounting services help companies move beyond simple bookkeeping to strategic financial management. He also discusses how AI and automation are reshaping the accounting landscape and why proactive financial oversight is the key to scaling with confidence.The Shift to Strategic, Outsourced AccountingRhett Molitor founded Basis 365 Accounting in 2012 to fill a crucial gap for businesses earning between $1M–$20M in revenue—companies that have outgrown basic bookkeeping but don't yet need a full-time accounting team. Instead of focusing on compliance alone, Basis 365 partners with CEOs to turn accounting into a growth lever.Molitor breaks accounting into four key levels: bookkeeper, accountant, controller, and CFO—each representing a stage of financial maturity. A proactive approach means using data for decision-making, forecasting cash flow, and improving profitability over time. He also cautions that while AI and automation have made accounting faster, expert human oversight remains essential for accuracy and strategy.For SMB leaders, Rhett's message is clear: don't treat accounting as an afterthought. It's not just about managing expenses—it's about creating visibility, confidence, and insight to drive growth. Partnering with the right fractional accounting team gives businesses access to senior-level expertise without the overhead of full-time hires.About the Rhett MolitorRhett Molitor is the co-founder and CEO of Basis 365 Accounting, a U.S.-based outsourced accounting firm specializing in digital agencies, SaaS companies, and consultancies. With over a decade of experience helping SMBs scale efficiently, Rhett champions proactive, transparent financial management supported by technology and expert insight.About the Basis 365 AccountingBasis 365 Accounting provides outsourced bookkeeping, accounting, and fractional CFO services designed for growth-focused businesses. By combining automation tools with expert financial guidance, Basis 365 helps companies gain clarity, reduce risk, and improve profitability. Learn more at basis365.com.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeBasic 365 Accounting WebRhett Molitor LinkedIn ProfileKey Episode HighlightsThe 4 levels of accounting: bookkeeper, accountant, controller, CFOWhy proactive financial management drives scalabilityHow AI and automation are reshaping accounting workflowsCommon pitfalls SMBs face when they “outgrow” basic bookkeepingActionable steps to make accounting a strategic business advantageConclusionOutsourced accounting isn't just about saving money—it's about gaining visibility, expertise, and strategic advantage. Rhett Molitor's approach at Basis 365 Accounting shows that when SMBs invest in proactive financial systems and fractional expertise, they set the stage for smarter growth and long-term stability.
A wide-ranging selection of tech companies, from drone software to med-tech have today been announced among the winners of the inaugural North-South Business Cooperation Awards, a €500,000 programme launched by the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation to celebrate cross-border entrepreneurship on the island of Ireland. The Awards, which culminated in a high-profile ceremony at Castle Leslie Estate, Co. Monaghan, saw a total of nine entrepreneurs and entrepreneur businesses in partnership, recognised for their outstanding achievements in building businesses that bridge communities in Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The Awards attracted a large volume of entries from across the island, with businesses demonstrating genuine cross-border collaboration and trade. Eligible companies were required to show a meaningful presence in both jurisdictions while also meeting minimum thresholds for turnover and employment. The result was a highly competitive field that showcased the strength and diversity of entrepreneurship operating across the island of Ireland. North-South Business Cooperation Awards A total of €500,000 in cash prizes was awarded: one Gold Award of €150,000, two Silver Awards of €100,000 each, and six Bronze Awards of €25,000 each. Partnering with Galway-based chocolatier, Grá Chocolates, Northern Irish tech platform needi took home a Silver Award. The female-founded service, created by co-founders Steph Scholes and Louise Doyle to connect businesses with local, independent vendors using AI technology and human curation, was set up in Armagh in 2020. Renewable energy solutions firm Acel Energy also received a Silver Award. The Monaghan-based company designs and implements solar tech, battery-storage and demand-management systems for commercial clients, often under co-ownership or Power Purchase Agreement models. Among the Bronze Award winners, med-tech companies saw huge success through cross-border partnered entries, with fertility clinics OvaScan Fertility Ultrasound (Dublin) and New Beginnings Scan (Strabane), which each combine advanced ultrasound technology with specialist expertise, taking home prizes through a joint entry. Súil Pharma, a Galway med-tech company developing novel therapies specialising in vision and hearing diseases, and Medinect Ophtho, a Belfast service provider delivering high-quality pre-clinic services, also joined forces to each take home a Bronze Award. Rounding off the joint entries, Subterranean Software, specialising in drone and embedded systems for constrained environments, and Good Friday Robotics, which develops advanced drone robotics for hazardous environments, were each also awarded a Bronze prize. Other Bronze winners in tech included Cotter Agritech, which develops precision livestock health tools, enabling selective treatment of livestock to reduce chemical usage and improve sustainability, and Arcus Cleaning Systems, an industrial hygiene and automated cleaning solution provider. Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, creator and owner of the easy family of brands - including easyJet.com, easyHotel.com and many others (see www.easy.com and www.easyHistory.info), and founder and president of the Stelios Philanthropic Foundation (see stelios.foundation and stelios.ie) - personally presented the awards and met the finalists at the ceremony. Speaking at an event announcing the winners, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, said: "This is a proud day for entrepreneurship on the island of Ireland. The winners we honour today show that when determination, innovation and creativity meet, borders become bridges. These entrepreneurs are not only building successful businesses - they are proving that collaboration across communities leads to prosperity for all. They are creating jobs, delivering services and setting an example for the next generation of entrepreneurs. I hope that their success today will encourage even more entrepreneurs to think ambitiously, work collaboratively, and see the entire isl...
The 3 Rs of Grace - Real God, Real People, Restoring Lives. All disciples of Jesus are called to join Him in His ministry of restoring lives to wholeness.
In this episode, Dave shares a recent message he gave to the Crossway Online Church community, reflecting on Luke 10 and the surprising power of ordinary people in God's mission. In Luke 10, Jesus sends out 72 others — because 12 were not enough. When the 72 return, full of joyful testimonies of God at work, Jesus Himself is described as “full of joy through the Holy Spirit.” “I praise you, Father… because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children… Blessed are the eyes that see what you see.” — Luke 10:21, 23–24 Dave reminds us that Jesus transferred the kingdom of God into the hands of ordinary disciples — people who pray, listen, obey, and go. Story 1 — Aisha in South East Asia Among a large unreached people groups, Aisha was a simple housewife trained in disciple-making. As she prayed, God gave her a heart to reach her community around her. With no previous experience, she simply started where she was — in the marketplace. Partnering with a street trader named Fani, they began selling a local delicacy — fried chicken heads — and the business grew rapidly. Immersed in the community, Misha began offering: • Micro-loans to struggling traders • Literacy classes for teenagers • Discovery Bible Studies (DBS) with new friends What began as prayerful availability has now become multiplying disciple-making groups. Jesus leaped for joy because God reveals His kingdom through the unexpected and overlooked — the “little children.” Story 2 — The Chicken Shop Disciple Maker In a region of South Asia experiencing high persecution, Dave describes how one of the teams has seen over 40,000 new disciples and 2,200+ churches planted. In the midst of this movement was a man who simply ran a local chicken shop. He learned to start Discovery Bible Studies with his neighbours. Disciple-making is simple and reproducible. Ordinary people. Everyday places. Story 3 — James in Africa James is seeing a movement among Muslim university lecturers, Muslim students, their families and the wider community. In the last 12 months alone: • 161 new Discovery Groups have been birthed • 99 new churches have been planted • 11 unreached people groups have been engaged • Groups are multiplying to the 4th generation and beyond There is real joy and freedom from darkness, with many baptisms among those previously far from Jesus. Photo: James' first house church Photo: Discovery Bible Group on an Islamic University campus Recent baptisms through James' ministry in Africa Response Key Characteristics of Ordinary Disciple Makers • The Power of the Ordinary — Don't compare yourself. • The Power of Availability — Simply be available to God. • The Power of Obedience — Listen and follow what God says. • Birth Everything in Prayer — Movements start on our knees. Dave ends with a call to: • Pray • Give to missions • Go and participate in the Great Commission Because the Gospel spreads not through the extraordinary, but through ordinary people who say ‘yes' to Jesus. You can watch Dave sharing at Crossway here
In this Fan Favorite episode of the Second in Command Podcast, Cameron Herold speaks with Anna Collins, President and COO of Bulletproof, the globally recognized brand behind Bulletproof Coffee, supplements, and biohacking products designed to help people perform better, think faster, and live healthier lives. She is also a Board Member of Ladies Who Launch.Before joining Bulletproof, Anna led multi-billion-dollar businesses at Amazon, Microsoft, and CVS Health, bringing a data-driven, operational mindset to every stage of growth. In this conversation, she reveals how she helped Bulletproof evolve from a niche “biohacker” brand into a household name—streamlining operations, tightening focus, and scaling omnichannel distribution without losing its visionary edge.Anna also shares her leadership principles, from managing a founder with 100 ideas a day to running metrics-driven weekly business reviews that keep innovation grounded in reality. Her insights bridge the gap between entrepreneurial chaos and corporate discipline, showing how great COOs turn vision into execution.Timestamped Highlights[00:00:00] – Cameron introduces this episode as one of the most downloaded in show history.[00:01:14] – Anna's career journey: from Microsoft and Amazon to joining Bulletproof.[00:03:52] – Why she left Amazon Prime for a mission-driven brand.[00:05:36] – What convinced her Bulletproof wasn't just a fad—but a real performance enhancer.[00:06:23] – Partnering with Dave Asprey: defining roles between visionary and operator.[00:07:18] – The challenge of narrowing focus when everything looks like a good idea.[00:08:54] – Bringing Amazon's frameworks—tenets, principles, and data mechanisms—into Bulletproof.[00:10:07] – How structure helped Dave trust the team and delegate.[00:10:26] – Shutting down international markets and cutting SKUs to simplify growth.[00:11:59] – Expanding into Amazon marketplace and corporate distribution channels.[00:13:28] – Convincing the founder to “grow beyond the core biohacker.”[00:17:00] – Managing an idea-rich founder without stifling creativity.[00:18:37] – Anna's leadership philosophy: define reality, create possibility, say thank you.[00:21:00] – Rebuilding Bulletproof's vision, mission, and values for clarity and culture.[00:24:20] – Weekly Business Reviews: the data-driven rhythm behind execution.[00:30:32] – How Anna divides her focus across key stakeholders—customers, team, and growth.[00:36:35] – Simplifying the Bulletproof brand for mainstream accessibility.[00:38:00] – Where she struggles as a leader—and the balance between speed and empathy.[00:42:33] – The advice she'd give her 21-year-old self: don't take it all so seriously.About the GuestAnna Collins is the President and COO of Bulletproof overseeing strategy, operations, and omnichannel growth for the globally recognized biohacking brand. Previously, she led billion-dollar initiatives at Amazon, where she managed global Prime membership programs, and at Microsoft, where she built the search advertising business from concept to $1.6B in revenue. She is also a Board Member of Ladies Who Launch.A Harvard MBA and transformational leader, Anna specializes in building scalable systems that bridge creative vision with operational discipline. At Bulletproof, she's helped expand the company from its core biohacker audience to a broader wellness market—making human optimization accessible to everyone.
Affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges facing North America today. In this episode of The Property Profits Podcast, host Dave Dubeau talks with Sean Carpenter, founder of Shamrock Development, about how he's helping lead the charge in building more accessible housing across the U.S. Sean shares how developers can make affordable housing projects work—financially and operationally—through smart partnerships, tax credits, and government subsidies. You'll also hear how these deals are structured, how joint ventures come together, and why more private capital is entering the affordable housing space. Whether you're a developer, investor, or someone interested in real estate with impact, you'll find a ton of value in this episode. What You'll Learn: How affordable housing projects are funded Why market-rate developers are shifting to affordability The difference between workforce and affordable housing How Sean partners with others to develop impactful projects Where to find the right incentives and subsidies
Manager Minute-brought to you by the VR Technical Assistance Center for Quality Management
In this episode of Manager Minute, host Carol Pankow welcomes Dr. Chaz Compton and Dr. Meera Adya, co-directors of the new National Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center (NVRTAC). They discuss how the Center builds on decades of innovation in vocational rehabilitation (VR) to unify training, evaluation, and technology that strengthen state VR agencies across the nation. Partnering with The George Washington University, the National Disability Institute, CSAVR, YesLMS, Case Review Solutions, SaraWorks, and Intellitech, the NVRTAC delivers comprehensive technical assistance to enhance performance, fiscal management, and employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities. Key initiatives include AI-driven tools such as SaraWorks and Case Amplify, designed to reduce administrative burdens and capture real-world impact. The team is also launching leadership and fiscal talent development programs, expanding recruitment and retention efforts, and embedding continuous evaluation across all initiatives. Their goal is to achieve measurable outcomes, real change, and a stronger, more efficient VR system serving individuals with disabilities. Listen Here Full Transcript: {Music} Chaz: Right now, not ten years from now, but right today, we have the capacity to. Turn our administrative burden into an AI driven function that alleviates that burden. Meera: Input is getting provided at the beginning and the middle at the end all over again. It really is that measurable and real change and ongoing calibration towards that is our North star. Chaz: And having actual measurable outcome improvements. So simple as that. Carol: That sounds good. How about you? What do you think? Meera: Nothing to add. Measurable outcomes. Real change. Drop the mic. Carol: Boom! I love it. {Music} Intro Voice: Manager Minute, brought to you by the Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center. Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time, one minute at a time. Here is your host, Carol Pankow. Carol: Well, welcome to the Manager Minute. Joining me in the studio today are my close colleagues, doctor Chaz Compton and Doctor Meera Adya, Co-project directors of the new National Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Center, or VRTAC for short. So woohoo you guys! I'm so excited to have you here. How are things going Chaz? Chaz: Wonderful. Very busy and very happy to be here. Thank you. Carol: Excellent. How about you, Meera? How's it going? Meera: Pretty good. Carol: Awesome. Well, glad to have you both. I just want to give a little bit of history for our listeners. The Vocational Rehabilitation Technical Assistance Centers have a long and rich history rooted in the Rehabilitation Act itself. And from the very beginning, the act recognized that helping individuals with disabilities achieve meaningful employment requires more than just funding. It requires a system of continuous learning, innovation and improvement. And that's why the Rehabilitation Services Administration has long invested in national technical assistance centers to strengthen state VR agencies, build staff capacity and ensure programs stay aligned with evolving regulations, Relations, research and best practices, and over the years, these centers from the early TACE centers to WINTAC and the QM and QE and AIVR TAC and all the things, and now the new NBR tech have become the backbone of progress in our field, helping translate policy into practice and ensuring that the promise of the Rehabilitation Act remains strong for the next generation. So let's dig in. Gang, can you tell our listeners a little bit about yourselves and your journey into VR? And, Chaz, I'm going to kick it to you first. Chaz: Okay. Gosh, it's been 40 years now. Hard to believe. I started with a community rehab program 40 years ago this year. Carol: Wow. Chaz: A few years later, I moved into the public VR program in California. I was a counselor, a supervisor, and then a district administrator and got my doctorate degree at San Diego State University and moved over and directed the TA Center 15 years ago, and then the WINTAC and then the VRTAC-QM and now the what we call the VR TAC, the national VRTAC. Carol: That is awesome. I did not realize it was 40 whole years. Chaz, I think we're pretty close in age to each other. Chaz: It's been a while. Carol: Meera, how about you? How'd you get your journey into this world? Meera: Well, my work has always been at the intersection of empiricism and law and policy. So I'm a researcher and evaluator. I've done projects looking at how people with disabilities can be successful in workplaces and communities, thinking about inter work and the VR system. More specifically, I became engaged first as a partner, leading the program evaluation for Interworks Wintech centre. And then Chaz convinced me to come to Interworks continue doing what I was doing by taking the lead on the program evaluation for the VR, QM, and then our portfolio at Interworks has grown. Now there are several disability innovation grants and customized employment projects in addition to the TAC that we are leading the evaluation on. And Chaz then offered me the opportunity to continue growing my work, and here I am as the co-director of the center as a whole, and I'm honored and thrilled to support Chaz and our team. Take the work with VR and its partners forward to improve outcomes for people with disabilities. Carol: I love it Meera, and you're a good addition, and we're really happy to have you as the Co-project director, too. So what is the overarching purpose of our new VR TAC? Chaz: It is to provide technical assistance and training that will help VR agencies and their partners improve service delivery and increase the quantity and quality of employment outcomes for individuals with disabilities being served by VR program and their partners. Our major focus areas include helping agencies effectively manage the program, the performance of the program, the fiscal side of the program and their resources, and helping them identify and implement effective employment strategies and practices that accomplish the overarching goal of helping improve outcomes and service delivery. That's the big picture. Carol: It is cool because it's like soup to nuts. I think sometimes, you know, the previous TAC, you know, they had very kind of more specific focus. And then with the QM and like QE too, you know, it expanded. But now we've got the whole shebang in one place. Chaz: Mhm. Carol: Very fun. Meera do you have anything you wanted to add to that? Meera: Sure. I was just thinking about all the work that Chaz has been doing, the messages he sends us and how we've come together and so far trying to put it into an encapsulation. I've been coming up with one team or his words, but I think just such a good representation and you'll see that now in our messaging going forward, but also a yes. And we don't say no. We find a way to work together and is so what, what is the measurable change that's going to result from the work we do? I think you're going to see that over the next five years constantly coming up. Carol: Yeah, I like that, Meera. You got to keep us grounded in that. About the so what? So what we can do lots of activities. But so what about them? And I see, Chaz, you're smiling at me because, you know, I'm an activity person. And it's like, but what's the benefit from what we did? So how does the new TAC build on the work in the lessons that were learned from all the previous work? Chaz: Well, to say we've learned some lessons along the way, especially in the last ten years, would be an understatement. There have been the implementation of WIOA and all of the requirements associated with that, living through all of the implementation with agencies, helping them respond to that effectively, looking at the demographic shift in the field to youth, where now the majority of the people we serve are 24 years of age or younger. Looking at going into and out of Covid and how that changed service delivery, how the fiscal landscape of the program changed accordingly, how we have seen the pendulum shift fiscally from one side to the other and now back again. All of that has helped inform, I think, the development of our technical assistance and the training and the way we go into this new center. So we have just a bunch of lived experience, if you will, along with agencies. So what they have gone through, we have gone through with them, and I think we can help them successfully navigate the future. And while at the same time responding to the challenges that they face right now. So all of that, I think, really has laid an important foundation for the VRTAC and the work we're going to be doing with agencies. Carol: I think you hit the nail with that. I think about all the last five years, even the work I've done and our team has done and how deep we got in with agencies like it felt like we were part. I often talk when I'm in at agency, I talk about we like I'm part of them because you're enmeshed in everything they're doing and their systems and their people and their meetings and all of their things. You become so ingrained with them. It really helped you to get such a clear picture of what was happening and helps really get maybe at the root of some of the issues and to develop that work fundamentally so that the seeds we laid could really grow and germinate and keep going forever and keep growing and growing and growing. So it isn't just a one shot. We did a little quick training and we're out of there. It really became such a deep lesson. Meera, how about for you with that lessons learned? I'm sure evaluation wise there are things you were thinking about as well. Meera: Oh, absolutely. We have all of our past evaluation reports and findings, and we can keep looking at those. And I certainly keep bringing them up whenever it strikes me that there's a relevant point that comes forward again. And you can see with the way that Chaz has put together these innovative partners and projects, a continuation of the successful approaches and partnerships as well, and just a laser focus on measurable change that evolution and improvement and lessons learned is just baked into the center. As a research and evaluator, I know firsthand how the knowledge translation pipeline takes time, but it can take less time when you work directly with stakeholders from the beginning, and that's what's happening with us. Chaz has always taken evaluation seriously, woven it into the very fabric of the work. Stakeholders are the partners. They hold us accountable. We continuously are learning what's working. Pivot when needs must. Carol: Well said Meera. Thank you for that. What current challenges do you guys see in the VR system that make a unified national TA center so important right now? Chaz: To say that efficiency, accountability and improved outcomes are important would be an understatement. And this is not a new focus, of course. I mean, you have to go back to the movement of the Rehabilitation Act under the Workforce Investment Act of 1988, which was really an attempt to improve efficiency and refrain from duplication of services and improve outcomes and all that stuff. And that focus has just grown and grown, Carol: right. Chaz: and so a unified center is I mean, it really is helpful to ensure that everything is administrated under one center that we're focused on, you know, whether it's focused on improving performance, like on the performance measures, like improving an agency's ability to manage their fiscal resources or implement employment strategies like, say, customized employment, a unified center can address all of these aspects together, holistically, understand how they interact with each other and an agency. Instead of having 2 or 3 different entities trying to work together with a VR program differently, with different ways of doing business, ways of interacting all that. So it just is a very efficient, I hope. Anyway, an enhanced holistic way of working with an agency. Ultimately, I believe that will contribute to increasing the likelihood of positive outcomes. Carol: I like the part with the employment being in with us now. Not that employment wasn't in our mind, but it was distant because we'd always put it like we, you know, we're referring folks over to the Q2E, but now with it all integrated, it really does kind of front and center. You're thinking about the fiscal things that my group is working at and how our impact is helping the program, maybe for stability or whatever may be going on, does impact the employment outcomes in the end, and the funds that are available and whether people go on an order or not, you know, all those kind of things. So I like that having it all together, it's a little closer, at least in my head. Meera, did you have any thoughts about that one as well? Meera: I echo everything you both have said. The unified voice. Central voice. This center has always been a supportive voice. It is always on, always available, and that continues to be really needed. That is something we've heard in the evaluation interviews and feedback that we've received is that folks really appreciate being able to just call, get someone on the other end, get an answer right away, send an email, hear back right away. The responsiveness and the targeted information that they need has been phenomenal. And so looking forward to that continuing. And now across the whole range and spectrum of what technical assistance is needed. As you both have said, It's a time of, you know, as was said, significant change requirements may be shifting again, a laser focus on efficiency and effectiveness of work, which is right. And, you know, in the broader context, we're seeing significant disruption in the work world. And the future of work has been talked about. The future of work is here today. It's the today of how we work. And agencies need help navigating all of that with their customers. There's a lot for our stakeholders and our partners to navigate. I think we've seen from the evaluation feedback, this is where our team under Chaz really excels. It just brings together the many. It brings together the a lot. It goes to the heart of it and meets it on the grant. Carol: Yeah. You lead into my next question about the partners on the grant because we have a deep bench. I mean, I felt like we had really phenomenal folks on the QM grant. But when I look at the partners you all have brought together for this, and we're on our first meetings and you've got, you know, 30 people in the Hollywood Squares instead of a dozen or so. It's a cool bunch, and people with such interesting expertise. So Chaz, who are the partners on our grant? Chaz: Our biggest and primary partner is the George Washington University. We've been partners with them for really since national centers were funded. They were part of the WINTAC, part of the QM, and now we'll be a obviously a critical part of the VR TAC Every single one of them is a doer. Their hands are have their hands have gotten dirty and providing like literally in the trenches to just like our own staff at work Institute at San Diego State. We just have been, practically speaking, teammates for a very long time. We know each other well, we work together well, and we're very confident in each other's work. GW a big, huge partner of ours. Then there's the National Disability Institute, which is also a longtime partner of ours. They'll be helping with the employment strategies component of things and just are a very well respected, nationally known institute that is really has some super interesting and helpful information and resources and knowledge along with the rest of the team. Of course, many of our listeners will know. Yes LMS, we're working with Linda and her team this time around, expanding our available training resources to users out there. CSAVR of course, is another long time partner. Everybody knows them. Sara Works is a partner of ours as well. Sara Works has been a partner again since the WINTAC days and, you know, has done all kinds of work with us in terms of developing Sara, the AI program to help act as an assistant to VR programs, communication tool and so on. Then we have Case Review Solutions. It's just a new partner of ours this time around focused on quality assurance, case reviews, contract monitoring. So another use of software and technology to basically provide solutions to VR programs. And another new partner this time around in Intellitech, which has created a program called Case Amplify, which is an AI driven system, which we'll talk about here in a few minutes, but we're really excited about this one as well, because it provides an opportunity for agencies to see how things could potentially be different and more effective into the future. So those are our primary partners, yeah. Carol: yeah. It's exciting. It's a cool group of people I really was thrilled to see in the very secret proposal that you would not share with us before we went in, and then you see what all the things are that are going to happen. You are always known, though, Chaz, for being the guy. You have those little fun projects that become part of the grant that you know, live on and people are able to carry out and they've created really cool things. This proposal with the exciting AI initiatives, can you share what tools like Case, Amplify and Sara Works are going to mean for state VR agencies? Chaz: Absolutely. And I think it's important for folks to understand the why. Right. Like, why are these it's not just because they're fun and they are super fun. You're right. But there really is a reason behind developing these projects. And the primary reason is as agencies have implemented Wioa and this kind of goes back to lessons learned, right? We know that the data elements for, for instance, for the 911 and just the recording processes and all of the administrative responsibilities associated with being in compliance with the law and the regulations is a burden. It's a struggle, and especially in a period of time where recruitment and retention has been a challenge across the country. You know, when you lose people and they're the ones responsible for gathering and reporting this data, IT becomes a real challenge on everybody else. And I honestly, in my heart of hearts, believe that embracing advanced technology is the way out of this. It's the way to effectively respond to it. It's not by hiring more people to do administrative stuff, although that would be wonderful. But, you know, we're in this situation for a reason. And now we have right now, not ten years from now, but right today we have the capacity to turn our administrative burden into an AI driven function that alleviates that burden from VR staff. And that's what the why is behind this? Why are we doing this? Because we want agencies to see and participate. If you know, if they're able and willing in these projects to see what the impact could be. Now, of course, we don't know, for instance, what the impact will fully be. We have a vision for it. But part of what this is is an experiment, right? It's a pilot, if you will, to make sure that we can see how it works. So the idea is that and I'll take Sara because Sara's been around for a while now. A lot of agencies know Sara. They know what's possible. Several of them use the program. Now, in our case, like under the VR tech, we're going to be using Sara to do something for pre-employment transition services that we haven't done yet. Now we're ten years. 11 years. Well, I guess ten years really post implementation 2016 was the full implementation. So we're approaching the ten year mark. And while we focused on implementing projects and tracking and reporting and down to the individual consumer level and all that good stuff. Making sure costs are allowable, that people are spending their 15%, all that good stuff. What we haven't done a very good job of yet is evaluating the impact of those services on individuals themselves. Like how has it impacted them? What does it mean in terms of their future employability or future involvement in post-secondary Ed or whatever it is we're trying to determine? And so using Sara specifically to communicate and gather information with students or former students on the impact of periods, and then analyzing that data and showing the impact, that's really where we're zeroed in on this project for Sara Works. Case Amplify, well let me go to CRS. So Case Review Solutions is a new software program developed by two of our former colleagues in the WINTAC and the QM, Rachel Anderson and Brittany McIvor. So they know right? Like what is it about the review system, the case review process, the process, the quality assurance process that is lacking the internal control process, right? How do we fix that or help fix it anyway? Or help states analyze where the deficiencies are and then give them information real time quickly along multiple levels to help them address it so that it's not a consistent finding and monitoring reviews so that they're on top of the changes that they need to make. So again, it's another technology solution to a challenge facing agencies. And they're also developing a contract monitoring tool that's going to be available later on in the project. That will help states monitor another big one. Right. We hear all the time is we're not sure like whether those contracts are doing what they should be doing and the quality of service delivery and all that stuff. So that's going to help with that. Case Amplify is a AI program that Intellitech has developed. It's so exciting to talk about how this could potentially change. And I mean really change the way that VR staff are gathering and populating information into the case through case management system. Ultimately, it has the capacity ultimately to make the process hands free. That is, you can talk to an individual, and this system is listening and gathering information and populating all over into the CMS important data elements, summarizing meetings. And believe it or not, like if it does what we really want it to do, it's going to actually fill in the 911 data elements automatically based on these conversations at critical points along the pathway. Carol: That's a game changer for people that alone with those what, 400 elements like that is a game changer. Chaz: Yeah, I could not be more excited about this one than I am. I just think it's going to be revolutionary. You know, it's still in its development phase fully. It's still going to be kind of an experiment with agencies and how it integrates into their existing CMS. But that's part of why we call it a pilot, because it's supposed to be a way to kind of see if things work the way we want it to work. Carol: It's so cool. I am really excited. I'm also excited about the whole evaluation part of projects because I long thought, you know, when I was back in Minnesota blind and we were getting all those funds spent on students and I'm like, we're getting at these kids earlier. I just knew in my heart of hearts like, this is going to make such a difference in their trajectory is going forward and employment, they're going to start better. They're going to start better in college because they're going to have all this exposure to things they had not had any exposure to. Finally, the time we get at being able to measure, is that really coming true? I mean, I believe it to be true, but it'll be nice to actually quantify it and go, yeah, this is what's happening for people. And we can see the real difference. And that investment that Congress had said all those years ago, we're going to invest in these kids. And they did it for a reason. And now the proof is going to be in the pudding with the results. I love it. So, Chaz, one of your goals was to strengthen the workforce. So tell us a little bit about the VR Fiscal Talent Accelerator and NRLI, the National Rehabilitation Leadership Institute. Chaz: Yeah. Great. So most people know NRLI. They've heard about it in the past and or even many participated. I remember at one point a few years ago at a conference, Steve Wooderson said, hey, how many people here have gone to NRLI. And I swear, three quarters of the room raised their hand. So it's over 20 years old now, and it's a training program specifically targeted at the executive leadership level, staff of the VR program and preparing them over a year long process where we meet in person for a week, four weeks out of the year, three times in San Diego, one time in Washington, DC. And there's coaching and training contacts that go on throughout the course of the year in a cohort model. So that is supported by the VRTAC this time around. So that's kind of our primary executive leadership training tool. Then we're developing something new this time around. For those of you who are listening, who are familiar with the management concepts training that was part of the QM, that was the VR grants management certificate program that we developed as part of that center. This time around, we are specifically zeroing in on the fiscal folks in VR and preparing a kind of like, nearly like program for them, where we'll use the same cohort model. I'm not certain of all the details yet, but obviously, Carol, you'll be a super important part of that one. And we'll provide an opportunity for fiscal staff in VR agencies who some obviously like every other position turnover at times. And when they do turnover, if they take the knowledge with them and nobody's coming behind them, it can be really challenging. So the Fiscal Talent Accelerator program will be a way to help them understand all of the responsibilities right under fiscal responsibilities in the VR grant, helping them really manage those resources and effectively so that the agency has both not just in compliance, but has the resources available to serve as many folks as possible. Carol: Absolutely. Yeah. I'm super excited about all of these projects. We've got a lot of work ahead. I know also, we had started spending some time under the QM addressing, you know, the recruitment and retention issues and leadership development and such. So how do you see that kind of expanding in the new grant? Chaz: Well, it's definitely expanding. And so we're very excited about that because we know clearly that recruitment and retention especially was a just a real, real issue in the last five years. So we had a recruitment and retention pilot under the QM that worked with four states. And we have some really helpful tools and toolkits developed as a result of that. That's on the QM site now, will be brought forward under the VRTAC, but more importantly will be going into phase two from that process under the VRTAC, looking again at implementing those strategies and practices for recruitment and retention with other agencies, tracking the impact of that over time, and expanding the scope of that. John Walsh was really helpful in leading that effort under the QM, and he'll be doing that again. Also, we're developing onboarding resources for VR programs this time around, helping agencies kind of identify both what to include and giving them actual stuff and resources to include in an onboarding program for VR staff. We're moving beyond just the executive level of training for nearly into mid-level management and supervisory training. Training specifically targeted at those groups, which I think will be really helpful and certainly very needed and engaging in succession planning processes with agencies, both strategic planning and succession planning understanding the two of them are clearly linked, but giving agencies some real strategies and practices on how to develop a succession plan and implement that, so that we're not faced with this sort of mass exodus of institutional knowledge. When people both retire or resign and we're like, oh no, what do we do now? Right. So hopefully we're intending to create resources, training tools to help agencies address that proactively. Carol: And we have some really awesome staff on this grant. This time around too, that can help. Our bench is deeper. You know, even in this area that are going to be able to help do that. So definitely. Meera, you have something you want to throw in there. I didn't forget you. Meera: Oh I don't think so. Chaz covered all the practices and new projects really well. Carol: Okay, Meera, I want you to tackle this one about the evaluation and data driving that ongoing improvement coming forward. Do you have thoughts about that? How's that going to look? Meera: Sure. I think I spoke to this a little bit earlier, but to pick up from that thread, I mean, that is something we are consistently doing. We have multiple channels and approaches that monitor the work and the change that are taking place. We have custom built apps and tools that our IT group has created, so we can make sure that we're setting up plans and staying on track with the agencies and the work that we're doing with them. And we have stakeholders, partners, customers, all of whom can provide feedback in different ways. We meet regularly to discuss what we are hearing and what we are seeing. Formally speaking, we have two reports that are compiled and shared broadly, internally and with stakeholders. We hold meetings, review the findings, and consider recommendations by taking that report apart and into little bite, but continuously throughout the year. We're not waiting for those big report moments. Evaluation Group has been woven into the work we do. They are a part of all the regular meetings that are taking place for the center, and input is getting provided at the beginning and the middle at the end, all over again. It really is that measurable and real change and ongoing calibration towards that is our North star. That will continue to be so. Carol: Led by the awesome you, which will be great. Chaz: Exactly. Carol: My final question to you too what will success look like for the VRTAC over the next five years. And Chaz, I'll ask you first. Chaz: Well, it will be demonstrably changing for the better outcomes in the VR program and service delivery. It will be serving individuals with the kind of commitment to meeting their individual needs and wants and desires and employment factors, and agencies operating efficiently and effectively and having actual measurable outcome improvements. So simple as that. Carol: That sounds good. Meera, how about you? What do you think? Meera: Nothing to add. He stole it right there at the end. Measurable outcomes. Real change. Drop the mic. Carol: Boom! I love it. So, how do people find you? Chaz: Our website will be VRTAC or just VRTAC.org. We have the site kind of really in its shell form right now. We're developing it. Give us a couple of months to get it fully going, but if you need to reach us, you can certainly contact any of us through the channels that you would normally reach us through the VRTAC-QM. Can send an email to me or to you or anybody else on the team. And at this point, I think most agencies are able to reach us in whatever way they want. But soon the website will be up and running and they can get us there or any number of ways. Carol: Awesome. Well, I sure appreciate both joining me this morning. It was super cool. And we can check back in in a couple years too and go like, woo, where are things now? It'll be fun to report on some more successes. So thank you both. Have a great day. Chaz: Thanks, Carol. Appreciate you having us. Meera: Thank you. Outro Voice: Conversations powered by VR. One manager at a time. One minute at a time. Brought to you by the VRTAC. Catch all of our podcast episodes by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Thanks for listening.
Exploring Rural Banking and Entrepreneurship with Brian Gansauer of People's National BankIn this episode we interviews Brian Gansauer, the Community Bank President of People's National Bank, who shares his extensive background in banking and business. Brian discusses his upbringing in Xenia, his career path from high school teller to a leadership role in a community bank, and his entrepreneurial ventures in the rental property market. He also talks about the unique aspects of rural banking, the challenges and opportunities for entrepreneurs in Southern Illinois, and the importance of community involvement and networking. Additionally, Brian shares his personal interests, including his passion for music and his involvement in various community boards.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:30 Brian's Background and Early Career02:35 Entrepreneurial Ventures and Real Estate03:41 Transition to Banking05:23 Rural Banking and Community Impact09:07 Advice for Entrepreneurs12:55 Networking and Personal Development13:52 The Importance of Partnering for Training14:36 Cascading Training and Community Involvement15:42 Advantages of Living and Working in Southern Illinois17:23 Personal Background and Musical Journey19:11 Community and Civic Involvement21:12 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Business Owners23:22 Vision for Southern Illinois26:03 Making a Positive Difference26:40 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsRecorded at EThOs Small Business Incubator and Co-working Spaces in Marion, Illinois.https://members.ethosmarion.org/ SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCASTOur guest: https://www.peoplesnationalbank.com/
00:00 – Introduction: Elevating the luxury open house experience01:00 – Meet Jerry Hammond: From Canada to the global luxury market03:00 – Why open houses should be experiences, not events05:00 – Micro events vs. macro soirées: What's the difference?08:00 – Partnering with luxury brands to enhance every showing11:00 – The $15M sale that showcased the power of experience14:00 – Creating FOMO and emotional engagement at events17:00 – Balancing privacy, security, and client trust20:00 – Protecting art, property, and personal assets23:00 – How to select properties ideal for luxury events26:00 – Collaborating with vendors and measuring ROI29:00 – Curating the guest list and sending personal invites32:00 – Capturing media, photos, and future marketing assets35:00 – Reinvention: staying relevant in the luxury market38:00 – Final thoughts and takeaways from Jerry Hammond
Bryan joins Eric Franchi and Joe Zappa to discuss the content-to-commerce phenomenon Shopsense is pioneering, the startup's partnership with The Trade Desk, and leadership lessons from Amazon. Shopsense is an Aperiam portco and Sharp Pen client.
My Fintech Newsletter for more interviews and the latest insights:↪︎ https://rexsalisbury.substack.com/In this episode, Anthropic's Nicholas Lin explains how vertical AI agents are reshaping financial services, from building real-time investment models to automating data analysis for some of the world's largest funds. We explore why finance was chosen as Anthropic's first enterprise vertical, the challenges and benchmarks in deploying safe, reliable AI, and how large organizations are integrating these tools across research and operations. Nicholas Lin also shares insights on the next era of AI adoption, collaboration with global partners, and the future role of financial analysts in an agent-powered economy.Nicholas Lin.: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cxl/00:00:00 - Anthropic demos real-time AI financial analyst00:00:39 - Claude's rollout to global enterprise clients00:01:27 - Why verticalize AI models for finance00:02:36 - AI as a solution for complex industry problems00:03:46 - Tackling regulated logic and audit trails00:05:07 - Building “retrieve, analyze, create” agents00:07:11 - Outperforming on industry research benchmarks00:09:13 - Integrating AI with customer feedback loops00:10:14 - Why AI-enabled spreadsheets matter00:13:03 - Partnering with sovereign wealth funds00:15:10 - Data integration and readiness for AI00:17:13 - Changing workflows with live artifacts00:20:04 - Customizing tools for technical teams00:23:19 - Driving product development with design partners00:25:12 - Future of “full-stack” autonomous agents00:27:33 - Solving adoption and change management00:29:01 - Enterprise-wide AI from consulting to accounting00:30:53 - Most bankers still lack AI access00:32:40 - Social impact of automating analyst work00:34:31 - Favorite AI and finance tools00:36:43 - The next wave of AI advances at Anthropic___Rex Salisbury LinkedIn:↪︎ https://www.linkedin.com/in/rexsalisburyTwitter: https://twitter.com/rexsalisburyTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rex.salisburyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/rexsalisbury/
In this episode, Randall gives you a closer look at the historic coaching matchup between Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson in Philadelphia last Thursday! Partnering with Chelsea Abrahms of Geenie Productions, the show analyzes the story leading up to the huge matchup and spotlights student voices discussing how the atmosphere has changed at Delaware State University under Jackson's leadership of the football program. Then, Randall and Arielle Kilgore give their thoughts on the game and where both Norfolk State and Delaware State go from here as the season draws to a close. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Nicole Ayers has built a career out of scaling brands that make mealtime 1000x more fun. She once managed cereal icons like Lucky Charms and Cinnamon Toast Crunch. These days, she's all about four-legged foodies. Partnering with Curiosity, Nicole and Blue Buffalo are stepping into the fresh pet food game with their newest product innovation: Love Made Fresh. In this episode, Nicole pulls back the curtain on how you can confidently bring new product innovations to market, why you should never let consumer testing dictate the fate of your work, and how to make the most of your marketing dollars. What you'll learn in this episode: The keys to a successful new product launch Why Glossier has the best product launches Nicole's thoughts about AI-generated spots Brand-building strategies Blue Buffalo can learn from Lucky Charms General Mills' strategy behind Edgard & Cooper's exclusive partnership with PetSmart The secret to selling bold creative to companies like General Mills How to maximize your marketing dollars against big category spenders How to know when the strategy and creative are right Why concept testing shouldn't be the final verdict for creative How to turn your "thinks" into "knows" by asking the consumer A BTS look at Cinnamon Toast Crunch's cereal cannibalism campaign Resources: Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn Learn more about Blue Buffalo on their website Read more about Love Made Fresh See the new Love Made Fresh work Watch Cinnamon Toast's cereal cannibalism spot
Welcome to episode 215 of Sports Management Podcast. Today's guest is Jordy Leiser - the CEO of Jump, a platform which is redefining the fan experience, from AI-driven personalization to direct-to-consumer fan engagement. We spoke about: Why teams need to own their fan relationships How AI personalizes the sports experience The story behind Jump's $25M raise Working with Alexis Ohanian, Alex Rodriguez & Mark Lore The future of global fan engagement And much more! Time stamps: 00:01 Intro 00:30 Jump - connects the full fan experience 01:23 Partnering with North Carolina Courage and Minnesota Timberwolves 03:18 The meaning of "vertical platform" in sports tech 05:36 How Jump replaces legacy ticketing systems 07:51 Using AI to personalize fan experiences 10:58 Why direct-to-consumer fan relationships matter 15:01 Raising $25M led by Alexis Ohanian 18:23 Global expansion opportunities 20:32 Remote-first company culture & trust 23:19 Jordy's path from finance to sports entrepreneurship 33:47 Resilience through setbacks 39:15 Advice for young professionals in sports 40:35 Outro Follow Sports Management Podcast on social media Instagram Twitter LinkedIn YouTube www.sportsmanagementpodcast.com
In this episode, farmer Will Conway of Stone Acres Farm talks about a potential income strem for small farms: getting in touch with local chefs for curated dinners. Subscribe for more content on sustainable farming, market farming tips, and business insights! Get market farming tools, seeds, and supplies at Modern Grower. Follow Modern Grower: Instagram Instagram Listen to other podcasts on the Modern Grower Podcast Network: Carrot Cashflow Farm Small Farm Smart Farm Small Farm Smart Daily The Growing Microgreens Podcast The Urban Farmer Podcast The Rookie Farmer Podcast In Search of Soil Podcast Check out Diego's books: Sell Everything You Grow on Amazon Ready Farmer One on Amazon **** Modern Grower and Diego Footer participate in the Amazon Services LLC. Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Mark 3:13-19Ben & Kate Newman, Pastors of Edinburgh Vineyard, were with us this Sunday and Kate spoke to us about practical ways of partnering with the Holy Spirit to bring in God's Kingdom, now.
In this episode, we're joined by Rachel Elder, PATH Intl. CTRI, CHA IRD, and Program Director at Agape in Cicero, Indiana, to explore the inner workings and far-reaching influence of Agape's programs. Rachel shares insights into how Agape's hippotherapy program operates through a unique hospital partnership, the interconnected nature of their equine-assisted services, and the organization's legacy as it approaches its 40th anniversary.What You'll Hear in This Episode:Hippotherapy Program Logistics & Partnerships. Rachel explains how Agape's hippotherapy program is offered through a contracted partnership with a local hospital, allowing therapists and students to integrate real clinical experiences in an equine environment—bridging healthcare and horsemanship in powerful ways.The Interconnectedness of Our Programs. Learn how Agape's programs—hippotherapy, therapeutic riding, equine-assisted learning, and mobile outreach—are designed to complement one another. Rachel discusses how participants often transition from hippotherapy to therapeutic riding, continuing their progress and building confidence in new and meaningful ways that support physical, emotional, and social development.Our Statewide Impact & Legacy. As Agape celebrates nearly 40 years of service, Rachel reflects on how the organization's leadership and innovation have influenced nearly every equine-assisted services center in Indiana. It's a story of collaboration, mentorship, and legacy—how one program's success can lift and inspire an entire community.Learn more about Agape and reach Rachel at www.agaperiding.orgFollow us on social and plug in here: https://hetrauniversity.mykajabi.com/HETRAUniversityLinks
#654 What happens when your greatest strength — the very thing that defines your identity — suddenly disappears? In this episode hosted by Kirsten Tyrrel, Rhonna Farrer opens up about the highs and lows of her entrepreneurial journey — from building a successful career as a digital artist and app developer to facing a creative drought that challenged her identity and success. Rhonna shares how her family's entrepreneurial roots shaped her path, how she pivoted during difficult times, and how losing her creative spark led to a deeper understanding of her gifts. Now thriving with a new creative outlet in coloring books, Rhonna's story is a powerful reminder that setbacks often pave the way for breakthroughs. Don't miss this insightful conversation — and be sure to tune in for the final episode of our three-part series, where Rhonna and her husband Jeff share how they've built a thriving business together. (Original Air Date - 4/2/25) What we discuss with Rhonna: + Facing a creative drought + Learning to pivot in business + Influence of family entrepreneurship + Overcoming rejection and setbacks + Finding purpose through creativity + Shifting from scarcity to abundance mindset + Balancing motherhood and business + Partnering with the right people + Creative resurgence with coloring books + Lessons in resilience and reinvention Thank you, Rhonna! Check out Rhonna Designs at RhonnaDesigns.com. Follow Rhonna on Instagram and Pinterest. Watch the video podcast of this episode! To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to MillionaireUniversity.com/training. And follow us on: Instagram Facebook Tik Tok Youtube Twitter To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors. Want to hear from more incredible entrepreneurs? Check out all of our interviews here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Dave Riess explains how commercial property owners can turn rooftops into revenue using WonderPower's solar systems to increase NOI and hedge energy costs.In this episode of RealDealChat, Jack Hoss sits down with Dave Riess, CEO and co-founder of WonderPower (WunderPower.com), to discuss how commercial real estate owners can generate new income and protect against rising electricity costs using rooftop solar.Dave shares his journey from electrical engineer to energy entrepreneur and breaks down why commercial solar is one of the most underutilized opportunities in real estate. He explains how WonderPower helps landlords lease unused roof space, install solar systems at no cost, and collect steady lease payments — all while future-proofing their properties.You'll also hear about the latest trends in electricity demand, what's driving record utility costs, and how data centers, manufacturing reshoring, and AI are reshaping the energy landscape.What you'll learn in this episode:How WonderPower leases rooftop space to create new revenue streamsWhy solar is now cost-effective in most U.S. marketsThe impact of AI, data centers & manufacturing reshoring on energy pricesHow solar acts as a “physical hedge” against rising utility costsThe financial benefits of distributed generation for real estate ownersHow federal solar incentives are changing (and when they expire)Why landlords in the Northeast & California see the highest returnsHow NOI increases through renewable energy adoptionWhat property types qualify: logistics, warehousing, storage & medical officeThe minimal maintenance required and long-term reliability of solar assets
This week on the Boxoffice podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Chad Kennerk discuss the ongoing challenges at the October box office and how Chainsaw Man – The Movie: Reze Arc surpassed expectations. Then in the feature segment, Daniel speaks to Joe Garel of Western Film Services on exhibition strategies for navigating the current downturn at the box office.Give us your feedback on our podcast by accessing this survey: https://forms.gle/CcuvaXCEpgPLQ6d18 What to Listen For00:00 Intro 01:05 October Box Office Struggles Begin03:14 Chainsaw Man's Surprise Success06:00 Roof Man and Theatrical Highlights07:03 Weak Openings for New Releases09:00 The Worst October Since 199812:03 Delayed Releases and Scheduling Issues13:25 Relying on Re-releases to Fill the Gap15:56 Meet Joe Garel of Western Film Services17:05 Finding Underserved Audiences (Filipino Film Success)20:00 Flexible Booking and Alternative Programming21:10 Pricing Strategy and Audience Behavior23:25 Smarter, Audience-Driven Programming24:55 Why the Market Is Struggling26:45 The New Formula: Dynamic Booking & Showmanship28:40 Reviving Showmanship in Cinemas29:50 Sports as the Next Big Opportunity (FIFA Test)33:00 Event Cinema and Concert Success34:20 Reaching Younger Audiences Raised on Screens36:15 Targeted Marketing and Community Connection39:00 Partnering with Influencers & New Content (Paris Hilton Doc)41:00 The Power of Local Outreach & Email Lists43:00 Bringing Back Nostalgia and Themed Screenings44:45 Pricing Barriers and Attendance Decline
In this episode of the World Oil Podcast, leaders from Weatherford, Xecta, AWS, and Umbrage explore how collaboration and open innovation are redefining success across the energy sector. The discussion examines when to specialize versus integrate, how former competitors are co-creating value, and what it takes to build cultures that foster true joint success. From intelligent edge solutions to open digital ecosystems like the Weatherford LaunchPad, the conversation highlights how strategic partnerships are accelerating transformation and driving measurable impact across the oil and gas value chain.To view the video, click here.
Tia Newcomer is the CEO of CaringBridge, a nonprofit providing a vital digital platform where families can communicate, receive support, and rally their communities during health journeys. With a career that spans Revlon, PepsiCo., Hewlett-Packard, and multiple health tech ventures, Tia brings a rich background from the for-profit world into the heart of the nonprofit sector, or as she prefers to call it, the for-impact space. In this episode of The Wow Factor, Brad sits down with Tia to unpack her career journey across four pivotal pillars, from consumer goods to tech, healthcare, and now mission-driven leadership. She shares how personal experiences, including her husband's fight with cancer and her own sense of purpose, led her to take a surprising leap into nonprofit leadership. Tia discusses the real-world impact of CaringBridge on hundreds of thousands of families every day, the technology powering it, and how "ministry pace" just won't cut it when the stakes are this high. She also dives deep into why entrepreneurial thinking, business rigor, and cross-sector collaboration are essential in the nonprofit space. "The difference between nonprofit and for-profit is a tax status. The skillset? It's the same." – Tia Newcomer "In moments of crisis, people don't need 'let me know how I can help.' They need tangible action." – Tia Newcomer "If I'm spending the majority of my time working, it better be fulfilling. That's the leap I made." – Tia Newcomer This Week on The Wow Factor: Tia's four career pillars: Consumer Goods, Technology, Women's Health, and Nonprofit Why leaving HP was her wake-up call to find purpose in her work Her perspective on for-impact vs. nonprofit leadership How CaringBridge grew to 300,000 daily users with only 40 employees The real story behind the CaringBridge platform and its founder Why technology for good is more essential than ever The burden of "just let me know how I can help" and what to say instead The power of one person raising their hand to share updates and mobilize care Partnering with GoFundMe to raise over $10M directly for patients and families The role of generosity, from emotional support to meals, transportation, and funds Tia Newcomer's Word of Wisdom: Leadership is about building something that matters and having the courage to follow the nudge, even when it's outside your comfort zone. Connect With CaringBridge: Tia Newcomer CaringBridge Website CaringBridge LinkedIn CaringBridge on Facebook CaringBridge on Instagram Connect with The Wow Factor: WOW Factor Website Brad Formsma on LinkedIn Brad Formsma on Instagram Brad Formsma on Facebook Brad Formsma on X
In this episode of Tank Talks, host Matt Cohen sits down with Sameer Dhar, Co-Founder and CEO of NiaHealth, to explore how proactive healthcare is reshaping the future of medicine.Sameer shares his remarkable journey from living in nursing homes for a year while building his first startup (Sensassure) to launching NiaHealth, a Canadian health-tech company empowering people to take ownership of their longevity through AI-driven diagnostics and personalized insights.With over $8 million in funding and a 12,000-person waitlist, NiaHealth is building a clinician-first model that complements Canada's public system, helping users prevent disease decades before it develops. Sameer also discusses why prevention, not treatment, must drive the next wave of healthcare innovation, how AI will augment rather than replace clinicians, and what it takes to build a mission-driven company in a regulated industry.Whether you're a founder, investor, or health enthusiast, this conversation reveals how the next generation of health tech startups can blend AI, clinical integrity, and human empathy to create lasting impact.A Quick Word from our Sponsor, FaskenAt Fasken, our clients don't wait for the future. They build it. As the first and largest dedicated emerging tech practice in Canada, our team is composed of founders, ex in-house counsel, developers and business advisors who have guided clients from startup, to scale-up, to exit. The trust of our clients has enabled us to consistently rank at the top of every major Canadian M&A, Capital Markets and Venture Capital league table. With deep industry knowledge and experience across all areas of emerging and high growth technology including ClimateTech, MedTech, Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, and AgTech we're your partners within the innovation ecosystem as you transform the landscape of what's possible.Tomorrow starts here. Own it with us.For more information, visit fasken.com/emergingtech and follow us on LinkedIn.The Entrepreneurial Spark (05:52)* How the Next 36 program transformed Sameer from a finance student into a founder* The power of founder-focused education in shaping Canada's startup ecosystem* Lessons from learning to “think like a builder” instead of an employeeFrom Customer Discovery to Conviction (10:46)* How customer discovery can turn into “analysis paralysis” if you never act* Why true innovation means taking bold bets, not just collecting insights* The importance of timing when moving from research to executionBuilding NiaHealth (13:26)* The personal mission to keep people healthy long before disease develops* How the pandemic revealed gaps in personal healthcare ownership* The evolution of NiaHealth into a platform offering advanced diagnostics, clinician reviews, and personalized longevity plansIntegrating with the System (17:12)* Why NiaHealth chose a “clinician-first” model rather than going fully digital* How nurse practitioners bridge the gap between data and diagnosis* The importance of integrating with Canada's public system to maintain trustTrust and Transparency (22:51)* Addressing criticism about private healthcare models in Canada* Why NiaHealth avoids affiliate sales to maintain clinical integrity* The company's research-led approach to responsible, evidence-based testingFilling the System's Blind Spots (26:13)* Canada's biggest blind spot: a reactive healthcare model built around disease* How prevention and early diagnostics reduce system strain and save lives* The mission to empower users to act on health risks decades in advanceAI as an Enhancer, Not a Replacement (29:16)* Why Sameer believes AI should support, not replace, clinicians* How AI enhances diagnostic accuracy and clinician productivity* The role of empathy and human connection in patient outcomesScaling Impact (33:11)* NiaHealth's vision to reach 100,000 Canadians by the end of next year* Partnering with insurers and governments to expand preventative care* Why a “built in Canada, for Canada” strategy is key to long-term successAbout Sameer DharSameer Dhar is the Co-Founder and CEO of Nia Health, a serial entrepreneur and health-tech innovator recognized among Canada's Top 20 Under 20 and Edmonton's Top 40 Under 40. He previously founded Sensassure, an elder-care technology startup acquired by global health leader Essity.Connect with Sameer Dhar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sameerdhar/Visit the NiaHealth website: https://www.niahealth.co/Connect with Matt Cohen on LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/matt-cohen1Visit the Ripple Ventures website: https://www.rippleventures.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit tanktalks.substack.com
Graduation rates at community colleges have remained low, especially for students with low incomes. One effort to help students graduate and succeed in the workforce is MDRC's Scaling Up College Completion Efforts for Student Success (SUCCESS), a comprehensive student support program supported by 15 years of MDRC's postsecondary research. Through its Expanding SUCCESS Initiative, MDRC is partnering with states and districts to expand the SUCCESS program to new locations and campuses. In this episode, Leigh Parise talks with Jonathan Lowe, program director of Coaching for Success at Dallas College, and DeShawn Preston, a research associate at MDRC, about implementing a model of comprehensive student supports at Dallas College, as part of the Expanding SUCCESS initiative.
The US staffing market is a $180B opportunity, and more UK recruiters are making the leap than ever.In this episode, our host, Dualta Doherty, chats with Charles Causey, Founder of Agile Partnering, about what it really takes to scale in the States. From choosing the right niche and city to tackling compliance and payroll, Charles shares the hard-won lessons behind helping UK firms grow across the Atlantic, and they also dive into how AI and automation are reshaping the industry.
Season 2, Episode 14Guest: Amy Wilson — Nurse & Higher-Ed Simulation Specialist; youth fencing parent; advocate for neurodivergent athletesWhat we coverWhy “calm down” isn't a strategy: replacing emotions (anger → engagement, under-arousal → activation)Fencing's unique demands: fast decisions, constant stimuli, and doing it alone on the stripThe concept: regulate first, then choose to go explosive (“pull the pin on purpose”)Early warning signs of dysregulation: posture shifts, breath changes, jittering, gear fidgetingPrevention beats cleanup: proactive routines that keep athletes near the “middle” zoneWhy fencing can be great for neurodivergent athletes (stimulus, boundaries, cross-body movement)Parent–coach partnership: advocacy without power struggles; translating coach feedbackTools that work: visual charts, nonverbal cues, brief written notes, peer feedback, snacks/hydrationEmergency resets (when the fuse pops): safe sensory “pattern interrupts” and fast re-engagementEnvironment tactics: control what you can control without over-calming a kid who needs to competePractical toolkitObserve first: posture, breath, timing, self-touching (e.g., body cord)Visual feedback card (12 simple icons): on-target, watched lights, stayed centered, didn't fall, breath, etc. Use silent hash marks during bouts and review between.Between bouts script: “Does your body need anything?” (water, snack, bathroom, hug) → “Do you want feedback?”Proactive role-play at home: rehearse day-of scenarios and the visual card so it's familiarBreak-glass reset options: cold/ice in hand, pleasant sensory (safe “treat”), quick drawing/notes—replace the feeling, don't debate itParent self-care & coverage: tag-team when possible so your presence stays steady and usefulTimestamps0:00 — Why “regulate, then explode” beats “calm down”1:18 — Bringing nursing/simulation methods to the strip2:52 — What makes fencing uniquely tough for kids' regulation3:12 — Emotional regulation vs. “be calm”4:30 — Early signs of drifting out of the optimal zone5:53 — “Pull the pin on purpose” explained7:05 — Why intervene; what's at risk if we don't11:05 — Why fencing can be great for neurodivergent athletes14:46 — How to start: observe, map home strategies → strip strategies18:31 — Partnering with coaches; translating instruction23:51 — Visual tools (the 12-icon card) and peer evaluations29:50 — When the fuse pops: safe sensory interrupts and quick resets32:08 — Controlling what you can control without over-calming38:14 — Quick hits for parents: what to pack, what to say (and avoid), how to check inQuotable“Don't calm it away—regulate it and then pull the pin on purpose.” — Amy Wilson“The loudest thing at a tournament isn't the beeping—it's a kid's negative thought loop.” — Amy WilsonCall to actionTry one tool at your next practice or tournament: a simple 6–12 icon feedback card, the two-question check-in (“Does your body need anything?” / “Do you want feedback?”), or a pre-planned sensory reset. Share what worked with your coach.Resources from AmyBout Feedback Image SheetEmotional Regulation Pattern IdentifierWe also benefitted greatly from the Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center's ADHD Parenting Seminars. CCHMC's Center for ADHD is "one of the largest in the country devoted entirely to improving the care of children and adolescents with ADHD." Center for ADHD | Cincinnati Children'sCreditsHost: Bryan Wendell • Guest: Amy Wilson --First to 15: The Official Podcast of USA FencingHost: Bryan WendellCover art: Manna CreationsTheme music: Brian Sanyshyn
When you hear “Miss Nevada,” you probably think crowns and cameras - not an attorney, entrepreneur, and venture capitalist running multiple companies. But that's exactly who Lisa Song Sutton is. In this episode, Heather Blankenship sits down with Lisa to talk about how a law career and a batch of alcohol cupcakes turned into five successful businesses, including a venture capital fund investing in tech and veteran-led startups. Lisa opens up about building through different seasons of life, becoming a mom at 40, and why she doesn't believe in balance - just building a life that fits. If you've ever wondered how to do it all without doing it perfectly, this episode will change how you see success. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:19 Life in Las Vegas 03:09 From Law to Cupcakes 05:03 The Hustle Phase of Entrepreneurship 07:30 Building Smart: From Kitchen to Cupcake Truck 08:27 The Mailbox Business Breakthrough 15:17 Partnering with Friends (and Keeping the Friendship) 16:23 Motherhood & Entrepreneurship at 40 22:45 Launching The Veteran Fund 31:19 Finding Fulfillment & Redefining Success Join Our Women's Mastermind: https://woman.heatherblankenship.com/ Lisa Song Sutton's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisasongsutton/ Heather's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherblankenshipx3 Heather's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.blankenship.182/ Heather's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heatherblankenshipx3 Heather's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-blankenship-271908140/ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-me/id1713972310 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4EtqDw41QW193bH3TKnCiI Listen, rate and subscribe!
When you hear “Miss Nevada,” you probably think crowns and cameras - not an attorney, entrepreneur, and venture capitalist running multiple companies. But that's exactly who Lisa Song Sutton is. In this episode, Heather Blankenship sits down with Lisa to talk about how a law career and a batch of alcohol cupcakes turned into five successful businesses, including a venture capital fund investing in tech and veteran-led startups. Lisa opens up about building through different seasons of life, becoming a mom at 40, and why she doesn't believe in balance - just building a life that fits. If you've ever wondered how to do it all without doing it perfectly, this episode will change how you see success. Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:19 Life in Las Vegas 03:09 From Law to Cupcakes 05:03 The Hustle Phase of Entrepreneurship 07:30 Building Smart: From Kitchen to Cupcake Truck 08:27 The Mailbox Business Breakthrough 15:17 Partnering with Friends (and Keeping the Friendship) 16:23 Motherhood & Entrepreneurship at 40 22:45 Launching The Veteran Fund 31:19 Finding Fulfillment & Redefining Success Join Our Women's Mastermind: https://woman.heatherblankenship.com/ Lisa Song Sutton's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisasongsutton/ Heather's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherblankenshipx3 Heather's Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heather.blankenship.182/ Heather's TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heatherblankenshipx3 Heather's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-blankenship-271908140/ Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unapologetically-me/id1713972310 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4EtqDw41QW193bH3TKnCiI Listen, rate and subscribe!
Gross margins, GPUs, and the future of finance — this one's for the metrics nerds. CJ sits down with Sarah Wang, General Partner at Andreessen Horowitz, to talk about what happens when the traditional SaaS playbook collides with AI. Sarah shares how legacy benchmarks like payback period and burn multiple start to break down in a world where compute, not headcount, drives costs. She explains why sky-high gross margins can actually be an orange flag, how finance leaders can think about resource allocation between engineers and GPUs, and why the most valuable finance teams today are deeply operational. They also unpack what it's like partnering with AI-native founders, the evolution of pricing models as LLM costs drop, and whether we'll see a private trillion-dollar company anytime soon.—LINKS:on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-wang-59b96a7/Company: https://a16z.com/CJ on X (@cjgustafson222): https://x.com/cjgustafson222Mostly metrics: https://www.mostlymetrics.com—RELATED EPISODES:996 Culture, Exploding AI Bills & SaaS ChaosFrom Credit Karma to Notion: CFO Rama Katkar on Leading Finance Through Every Growth Stage5,762 Job Applications. Zero Offers.Thinking About Adding Payments to Your Software Product? Listen to This First!—TIMESTAMPS:(00:00:00) Preview and Intro(00:02:40) Sponsors – Fidelity Private Shares, Mercury, RightRev(00:05:50) Sarah Joins the Show(00:06:06) The Future of Excel in the Age of AI(00:08:24) Why Gross Margins Don't Tell the Whole Story(00:10:42) When Sky-High Margins Are an Orange Flag(00:12:57) Finance as a Strategic Lever in AI Companies(00:15:04) Sponsors – Tipalti, Aleph, Rillet(00:17:22) Partnering with AI-Native Founders(00:20:35) When Traditional SaaS Benchmarks Break Down(00:23:58) Forecasting and Financial Planning for Compute Costs(00:27:16) The Engineers-Versus-GPUs Trade-Off(00:30:29) Resource Allocation and Infrastructure Efficiency(00:33:47) How Pricing Models Evolve as LLM Costs Drop(00:37:15) Circular Finance: When Big Tech Funds Its Own Vendors(00:40:39) Metrics That Still Matter in AI-Driven Businesses(00:44:12) The Evolving Role of Finance Leaders(00:47:26) What “Operational Finance” Really Means(00:50:58) Building Sustainable Efficiency in AI Companies(00:54:03) Will We See a Private Trillion-Dollar Company?(00:55:33) Outro—SPONSORS:Fidelity Private Shares is the all-in-one equity management platform that keeps your cap table clean, your data room organized, and your equity story clear—so you never risk losing a fundraising round over messy records. Schedule a demo at https://www.fidelityprivateshares.com and mention Mostly Metrics to get 20% off.Mercury is business banking built for builders, giving founders and finance pros a financial stack that actually works together. From sending wires to tracking balances and approving payments, Mercury makes it simple to scale without friction. Join the 200,000+ entrepreneurs who trust Mercury and apply online in minutes at https://www.mercury.comRightRev automates the revenue recognition process from end to end, gives you real-time insights, and ensures ASC 606 / IFRS 15 compliance—all while closing books faster. For RevRec that auditors actually trust, visit https://www.rightrev.com and schedule a demo.Tipalti automates the entire payables process—from onboarding suppliers to executing global payouts—helping finance teams save time, eliminate costly errors, and scale confidently across 200+ countries and 120 currencies. More than 5,000 businesses already trust Tipalti to manage payments with built-in security and tax compliance. Visit https://www.tipalti.com/runthenumbers to learn more.Aleph automates 90% of manual, error-prone busywork, so you can focus on the strategic work you were hired to do. Minimize busywork and maximize impact with the power of a web app, the flexibility of spreadsheets, and the magic of AI. Get a personalised demo at https://www.getaleph.com/runRillet is the AI-native ERP modern finance teams are switching to because it's faster, simpler, and 100% built for how teams operate today. See how fast your team can move. Book a demo at https://www.rillet.com/metrics#RunTheNumbersPodcast #FinanceLeadership #AIinBusiness #VentureCapital #SaaSMetrics This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit cjgustafson.substack.com
How do we reach the next generation with the Gospel in an increasingly digital, distracted world?In this inspiring episode of The Covenant Eyes Podcast, host Karen Potter sits down with Fred Pry, a leader from Child Evangelism Fellowship (CEF) — one of the largest and most effective global children's ministries — to talk about how they are reaching children with the love of Jesus Christ in over 200 countries.
What does it take to build a value-creation engine that scales across portfolios, empowers CEOs, and blends purpose with performance?In this episode, host Linnea Jungnelius sits down with Tory Ramaker, Senior Partner and Co-Head of Vistria PRG, LLC ("Portfolio Resources Group") at The Vistria Group, one of the private-equity industry's most forward-thinking operating leaders.From founding the PRG from the ground up to re-engineering how portfolio teams drive transformation, Tory shares what it really means to create impact in essential industries — where financial returns and societal outcomes go hand in hand.For Operating Partners, CEOs, and investors alike, this conversation breaks down the next generation of value creation, grounded in partnership, empathy, and disciplined execution.What You'll Learn:• How to architect a portfolio operations model that bridges strategy and execution• Why management ownership, not investor direction, determines success• The playbook for aligning boards, sponsors, and CEOs around one value-creation plan• Why the best portfolio leaders blend consulting rigor with real operating experience• The leadership balance between autonomy and accountability that builds lasting trustTimecodes00:00 Intro00:15 Guest Introduction: Tory Ramaker, The Vistria Group00:54 Early Lessons in Resilience and Adaptability02:26 Learning to Influence: From Data and Logic to Empathy07:13 Building the PRG: Founding Vision and Early Model08:04 Evolving the Model: From Generalists to Functional Specialists09:51 Portfolio Priorities: Technology, Talent, and Finance11:06 Hiring Strategy: Product-Minded Tech Leaders and PE-Proven CFOs11:45 Next-Gen Operating Talent: Consulting Rigor Meets Operating Experience13:00 Operating Model Shift: Fewer Companies, Deeper Engagement14:33 Value Creation Planning: It Must Be Management's Plan15:14 Execution and Measurement: Defining Success Metrics17:03 Integrating Impact: Embedding Purpose into Value Creation19:00 Partnering with CEOs: Building Trust and Candid Collaboration21:03 Leadership Alignment: Autonomy with Accountability22:35 Co-Investment Collaboration: Clarity and Over-Communication23:46 Change Leadership: Applying AI and Data to Transformation26:42 Capacity Discipline: Forced Scarcity and Strategic Resourcing29:15 Leadership Standard: Autonomy with Accountability31:39 Human Capital Playbook: Assessments, Coaching, and CEO Readiness36:20 Leadership Evolution: EQ Over IQ38:19 Lightning Round: Personal Reflections Resources:Tory Ramaker:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tory-ramaker-a077141/ Linnea Jungnelius:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linneajungnelius X: https://x.com/itslinneaExplore the Podcast:Spotify: https://acertitu.de/tory-ramaker-spotify-podcastApple Podcasts: https://acertitu.de/tory-ramaker-apple-podcastBlog: https://acertitu.de/tory-ramaker-blogFound Value?
What if retail could do more than sell—it could inspire, educate, and connect communities? In this special episode of Rooted in Retail, host Crystal Vilkaitis gathers four incredible guests—Susan Tudor, Chacho Herman, Stuart Hata, and Jonathan Ochart—to dive into Museum Store Sunday, the cultural counterpart to Small Business Saturday.They share how this nationwide movement helps museum stores (and indie retailers everywhere) turn a single shopping day into a year-round celebration of purpose, connection, and creativity. If you're a museum store professional or a local shop owner, you'll walk away with fresh, actionable ideas to elevate your customer experience and strengthen community ties in this episode![0:38] What is Museum Store Sunday and how it started[4:57] The story behind the event's creation by the Museum Store Association[6:06] How to make shopping events more memorable and experience-driven[6:52] Meet the Makers, book signings, and interactive in-store moments[9:54] Turning your store into a celebration—events that build community[13:28] How to repurpose what you already have to promote your brand[16:20] Social media, word of mouth, and the power of repetition[17:26] Partnering with local artisans for exclusive, community-driven products[21:10] Building loyalty, connection, and purpose through storytelling[22:07] Creating your own branded event day—why consistency matters[24:25] How to get involved and find museum stores near youJoin the Rooted in Retail Facebook Group to continue the conversation Join our newsletter for all the latest marketing news for retailers Show off your super fandom by getting your Rooted in Retail Merch!
Big Tech loves to sell itself as a liberatory force for connection, free speech, and empowerment.But when it comes to Palestine, those same companies have partnered with Israel to censor, surveil, and criminalize.To unpack this “digital settler colonialism,” Rania Khalek was joined by Omar Zahzah, Assistant Professor of AMED Studies at San Francisco State University and author of "Terms of Servitude: Zionism, Silicon Valley, and Digital Settler/Colonialism in the Palestine Liberation Struggle,” which argues that understanding Palestine is essential to understanding the global struggle against Big Tech and U.S. imperialism.
Dr. Grace Yum sits down with Pamela Oren-Artzi, Co-Founder and COO of Grin, to explore how technology is transforming access to dental and orthodontic care. Pamela shares how Grin's digital monitoring platform bridges gaps in affordability, convenience, and provider access—helping dental teams better serve patients and expand their impact. From public health applications to private practice integration, she discusses what it means to “do well by doing good” in today's dental landscape. Episode highlights: Overcoming key barriers in dental access—cost, convenience, awareness, and provider availability How Grin's remote monitoring technology supports equitable, connected oral care Partnering with providers to improve access across public health and community programs Building a mission-driven business that balances growth with social responsibility Ready to thrive as a dentist and a mom? Join a supportive community of like-minded professionals at Mommy Dentists in Business. Whether you're looking to grow your practice, find balance, or connect with others who understand your journey, MDIB is here to help. Visit mommydibs.com to learn more and become a part of this empowering network today!
Episode DescriptionWhat if detox wasn't about deprivation, but about bringing your body back into flow?In this episode, Shelley Swapp blends Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy with cutting-edge nutrigenomics to reveal how your body's natural detox pathways influence hormones, metabolism, and energy. You'll learn why restoring gentle flow—rather than forcing a cleanse—is the key to long-term balance.Shelley explains how genes like NRF2, GSTM1, GSTT1, GCLM, and COMT shape your ability to clear hormones and toxins, and how everyday foods, herbs, and joyful practices can switch those genes on again. From the “savings-account” power of glutathione to the hormone-balancing effects of sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts, this episode turns complex biochemistry into everyday wisdom.“Your genes may show where the river narrows, but your lifestyle is the water itself—bringing life back into those channels, one small, consistent ripple at a time.”
In this deeply moving listener story episode, Kayleigh is joined by Meghan, who shares the heartbreaking and powerful story of her son, Max.
Episode Description: In this episode of the Build Tech Stack Equity podcast, host Darius Gant sits down with Austin Clements, Managing Partner at Slauson & Co., an LA-based early-stage venture capital firm rooted in economic inclusion. Austin shares his journey from building websites as a teen in South LA to managing multimillion-dollar venture funds designed to empower underrepresented founders. He discusses how Slauson & Co. was born from a vision to democratize access to capital, what it really takes to raise a first fund, and the lessons learned along the way, including how timing, persistence, and purpose shaped their $75M debut fund. Austin also explores the evolving venture landscape, founder-market fit, and why authentic storytelling is now critical for entrepreneurs. Later in the episode, he dives into Slauson's Friends & Family Accelerator, a six-month program investing $300K in early founders with bold ideas shaping the future of human experience. If you're interested in venture capital, founder stories, or building inclusive pathways to tech innovation, this episode offers both wisdom and inspiration. Founder Bio: Austin Clements is the Managing Partner and Co-Founder of Slauson & Co., a Los Angeles–based early-stage venture capital firm committed to driving economic inclusion by investing in technology that empowers small business owners and overlooked founders. At Slauson, Austin leads investments across sectors where innovation meets accessibility, bridging opportunity gaps and redefining what success in venture capital looks like. Prior to launching Slauson & Co., Austin honed his investment acumen at TenOneTen Ventures, where he supported some of LA's most promising early-stage startups, and began his career in investment management at AllianceBernstein. He also founded Pi Digital Media, a web and mobile development firm serving small businesses nationwide, an experience that deeply informs his perspective on entrepreneurship and technology. Beyond venture, Austin has long been an advocate for equity in tech and entrepreneurship. He was the founding Chair of PledgeLA, a groundbreaking collaboration between the Annenberg Foundation and the Los Angeles Mayor's Office designed to increase diversity, equity, and community engagement within LA's tech ecosystem. He currently serves as a Trustee for the Knight Foundation, where he helps shape investments in media innovation and community development, and has served on the boards of Library Foundation of Los Angeles and HBCUvc, contributing to pathways for underrepresented professionals in venture capital. A Kauffman Fellow, Austin earned his MBA from NYU Stern School of Business and his BA in Business Administration from Morehouse College. His career reflects a deep belief that inclusive investing not only fuels innovation but strengthens communities and builds generational wealth. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction: From South LA to Venture Capital 01:10 – Early Passion for Technology and Web Development 03:07 – Discovering Venture Capital Through Self-Education 05:20 – Partnering with AJ and Building the Vision for Slauson & Co. 06:00 – The Reality of Raising a First Fund 08:00 – Turning Points: COVID, George Floyd, and Industry Shifts 09:00 – Exceeding Expectations: From $15M Goal to $75M Fund 11:00 – The “Enroll, Don't Convince” Philosophy for Fundraising 13:00 – Lessons from 300 LP Calls and Building Credibility 14:00 – Slauson's Investment Thesis: Small Business Tech & Human Experience 16:00 – Founder-Market Fit and the Power of Lived Experience 17:00 – The Pattern Breakers Framework: Inflection, Insight, Idea 19:00 – How Founder Storytelling Has Changed in the AI Era 21:00 – Authenticity and Identity in Brand Building 23:00 – AI's Role in Startups and Investing: Finding the Right Layer 25:00 – The Case for Purpose-Built AI (Abby, the AI Therapy App) 29:00 – AI's Societal Impacts and the Future of Work 33:00 – One-Person Startups and the Limits of Context 37:00 – Launching the Friends & Family Accelerator 39:00 – Building Bridges for Underrepresented Founders 41:00 – Application Details and Call to Action Resources Follow Darius Gant LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/m-darius-gant-cpa-44650aa/ Company – www.tesoroai.com Slauson & Co. Website – https://slauson.co LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/slausonandco/ Austin Clements LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/austinclements/
In this podcast, Natalie Ostas, Associate VP of Finance and Controller at Covenant Living Communities shares how next gen ERP is supporting a finance transformation that helps the organization empower community operators, drive efficiency and savings across the business, and power continued growth. Hear how modern technology including agentic AI can provide a competitive advantage in the senior living market, improving employee experiences and freeing time to do more for your mission.This episode is sponsored by Workday.
The Kingdom for You: Hearing God's Voice and Partnering in the Battle In this episode of the Exploring More Podcast, Michael Thompson and SJ Jennings explore the profound reality that the Kingdom of God isn't just coming—it's for you. Picking up the thread from previous episodes on the map of darkness and light, they discuss how Jesus didn't just defeat the enemy—He invites us to join Him in bringing the Kingdom to earth. From stories like The Chronicles of Narnia and 50 First Dates, to biblical truths and personal experience, Michael and SJ unpack what it means to recognize God's voice, partner with the Holy Spirit, and live as image bearers of light in a world still shadowed by darkness. They emphasize that hearing from God isn't a spiritual elite experience—it's part of our design. With tools like the Pause app and YouVersion devotionals, they offer practical ways to slow down, be still, and listen deeply. This episode is a call to engage: to practice stillness, recognize the King's voice, and live as an agent of redemption in the Story we've been invited into. We hope you enjoy this episode and invite you to connect with us!
Did you know your financial advisor can actually help you invest in ways that reflect your faith?Advisors do more than just help you hit financial targets—they can also guide you in making a lasting impact with your investments. Today, Josh Bean joins us to share how to start the conversation about faith-based investing.Josh Bean is the National Sales Manager for Praxis Investment Management, an underwriter of Faith & Finance.25 Years of Change in Faith-Based InvestingAbout 25 years ago, Praxis conducted its first major study on faith-based investing. This year, they decided to revisit that research and see how investor attitudes have evolved.Partnering with Bellomy Market Research, the Praxis team surveyed over 1,000 individual investors and 400 financial advisors to explore the motivations, opportunities, and concerns surrounding faith-aligned portfolios.The exciting part is that the results confirmed what they've believed all along: people genuinely want to align their investments with what matters most to them. You can explore the full report at PraxisInvests.com/FaithBasedInvesting.According to the study, nearly half of all investors—48%—have already aligned their portfolios with their faith or are interested in doing so. What's striking is that this number encompasses all investors, not just those with a religious background.People see investing as more than performance—it's about purpose. They want their portfolios to reflect their convictions.The Advisor Gap: 78% Want Guidance, But Only 9% Are AskedPerhaps the most surprising finding is the communication gap between clients and advisors.78% of investors said it's important for their advisor to discuss faith-aligned options, but only 9% of advisors say they actually bring it up.That gap is one of the biggest barriers to growth. Investors are eager. Advisors often just don't know how to start the conversation. That's where firms like Praxis can help bridge the gap.One reason some advisors hesitate? The lingering myth that values-driven investing means sacrificing returns.That's just not the case anymore. At Praxis, they aim for benchmark-like returns through diversified, optimized portfolios. They screen out approximately 15% of companies that don't align with their values and incorporate positive impact strategies—all while closely tracking performance.This approach isn't just about numbers—it's about stewardship. In the Parable of the Talents, Jesus commends the faithful servants who wisely managed what they were given. That's our model—faithful stewardship with Kingdom impact.An Expanding Landscape of Faith-Based OptionsFaith-based investing has come a long way. What once seemed niche now includes mutual funds, ETFs, and multi-fund portfolios that reflect a range of Christian values and causes.Investors today can build diversified, competitive portfolios entirely within the faith-based space. There are more options—and better tools—than ever before.Among those tools are screening systems that allow investors to exclude companies that conflict with biblical values or to include those that make a positive social or environmental impact.Taking the First Step: Talk With Your AdvisorFor those new to this space, start the conversation. Ask your advisor, Can my faith be reflected in my investment strategy? That one question could open the door to an entirely new way of stewarding your money.To help, Praxis has created a free Faith-Based Investing brochure, available at PraxisInvests.com/FaithBasedInvesting. It provides practical guidance on initiating faith-aligned conversations with your financial advisor.And if you'd like to find a Certified Kingdom Advisor who specializes in Faith-Based Investing, you can visit FindACKA.com. On Today's Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:I'm 82 years old and recently got a cold call from someone asking if I'd like to sell my house for cash. I don't owe anything on it—just pay for homeowners' insurance and utilities. Since God has blessed me to live mortgage-free, should I even consider their offer?I'm considering taking out a $20,000 loan, but I'd rather not use a home equity loan, even though my credit is good. I was thinking of a personal loan through Bank of America instead. My husband is retired, and I'm the only one working—so which option would be more cost-effective for us?Resources Mentioned:Faithful Steward: FaithFi's New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)Praxis Investment ManagementReport on Faith-Based Investing from PraxisWisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on MoneyLook At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and AnxietyRich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich FoolFind a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)FaithFi App Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
Ethan King is the Co-founder of Zeus' Closet and Stuff4GREEKS, two custom apparel companies known for their creative designs and advanced embroidery for fraternities, sororities, and the entertainment industry. He is a TEDx speaker, global keynote presenter, former president of the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) Atlanta chapter, and communications expert for EO US East. Ethan is recognized internationally for his leadership and innovation in business. He is also the author of ChatGPT to Double Your Business in 90 Days and a strong advocate for leveraging AI and automation to enhance productivity. Peter Bemko is a Business Strategy Consultant with WSI, the world's largest full-service digital marketing agency network. Partnering with small and medium-sized businesses, he leverages WSI's proven digital strategies to help clients navigate change, stay competitive, and reach their full potential. Peter specializes in SEO, PPC, social media, and content marketing to deliver measurable growth. He also serves as Social Media Chair for the SCORE Southeastern NJ Chapter, where he supports local entrepreneurs with practical digital marketing guidance. Glenn Dawson is the Founder of ResetU Fitness, a transformative health and performance program designed to help high achievers eliminate chronic pain and reclaim their vitality. With over a decade of experience in functional training, body mechanics, and nutrition, Glenn combines his expertise with a personalized approach to guide clients back to peak performance. Through ResetU's proven 30-day system, he empowers individuals to reset their bodies and achieve lasting results. Steve Gumm is the Founder of LeadPass Marketing, a marketing strategy and consulting firm that partners with clients on a case-by-case basis to drive growth through innovative lead generation solutions. With a rich background in branding and marketing, Steve has collaborated with renowned brands like Sony, Life is Good, and Harry Caray's. In this episode… Top entrepreneurs and business leaders are constantly navigating rapid technological changes, mastering new tools, and refining their strategies. Without the right resources, they risk falling behind, losing focus, and missing opportunities. How do they stay sharp, scale effectively, and maintain a competitive edge? Ethan King, Peter Bemko, Glenn Dawson, and Steve Gumm share how they use automation, AI, marketing strategies, and structured programs to grow their businesses and support their clients. From scaling an embroidery business and refining digital marketing approaches to transforming health and wellness and managing fractional CMO projects, they discuss their favorite books, podcasts, and apps that keep them sharp and innovative. Their insights emphasize the value of practical tools, continuous learning, and consistent habits for personal and professional growth. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, host Dr. Jeremy Weisz sits down with Ethan King, Peter Bemko, Glenn Dawson, and Steve Gumm to explore actionable strategies for scaling businesses efficiently. They dive into lessons learned from real-world projects, the best resources to stay ahead in fast-changing industries, and tips for maintaining focus and momentum. Entrepreneurs will gain practical insights for growing their business while remaining adaptable, innovative, and balanced.
Amid the energy of the IUCN World Conservation Congress, David meets legendary marine biologist, oceanographer, and explorer Dr Sylvia A. Earle — affectionately known as “Her Deepness.” Still diving at 90, Sylvia began her career with a PhD in phycology (the study of algae) in 1966, has graced the cover of TIME magazine, authored nearly 200 scientific papers and 13 books, logged over 7,000 hours underwater, and still holds the 1979 record for the deepest solo dive — 380 meters beneath the sea.Joining her is conservation biologist Dr Tessa Hempson, Chief Scientist at Mission Blue, the nonprofit Sylvia founded in 2009. Mission Blue inspires global action to explore and protect the ocean through its network of Hope Spots — special places vital to ocean health. Partnering with local communities, scientists, and policymakers, the organization drives awareness, expeditions, and protection efforts toward one shared goal: safeguarding 30 percent of the ocean by 2030. Five years to go…Sylvia speaks of the fish she calls her friends — sentient beings with personalities, intelligence, and an inherent right to thrive in their ocean home. She reflects on the species lost to time — from the Steller's sea cow to the dodo — their fate sealed by humanity's destructive hand. And with a glint of curiosity, she admits her wish to meet a megalodon, that ancient giant of the deep. Yet her message is not one of nostalgia, but of hope. Sylvia believes the youth of today hold the key to a blue future — one where curiosity, courage, and compassion can restore balance to the seas she has spent a lifetime defending. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Leaders Of Transformation | Leadership Development | Conscious Business | Global Transformation
How do you turn a personal frustration into a $75 million brand—with no experience in the industry? In this episode of Leaders of Transformation, host Nicole Jansen interviews Justin Baer, founder of Collars & Co., who transformed a simple idea—a dress-collar polo shirt—into one of the fastest-growing luxury menswear brands in America. With no background in fashion and a long history of entrepreneurial experiments (and failures), Justin shares how he built a multimillion-dollar brand through relentless action, rapid testing, and the courage to launch imperfect ideas. His story of Shark Tank success and partnership with Mark Cuban reveals how persistence, timing, and customer feedback can turn a simple product into a household name. You'll learn: How to identify business opportunities from everyday frustrations Why “done” is better than “perfect” when launching a new product The power of storytelling and viral marketing (including the TikTok video made by his daughter) How to scale fast while staying true to your brand vision What it takes to go from side hustle to a $75 million business in just three years If you're an entrepreneur, innovator, or aspiring business leader, this conversation will inspire you to take action—before you feel ready—and trust the process of learning, testing, and growing along the way.