Podcasts about startup journey

In this episode of the Profitable Christian Business Podcast, host Doug Greathouse sits down with Curt Moore, founder of Moat Title Security, to discuss his bold leap from a 30-year corporate career in the energy sector into the world of Christian entrepreneurship. Curt shares how his faith has fueled the mission behind Moat, a startup protecting homeowners from title fraud and squatter issues. Doug and Curt dive deep into the often-overlooked threats facing property owners and how Moat's innovative legal tools proactively guard against identity theft in real estate. You'll hear candid reflections on startup struggles, the importance of passion and perseverance, and how God's guidance plays a critical role in decision-making. If you're building a business from the ground up—or protecting one you've already built—this episode offers encouragement, education, and eternal perspective. Topics Covered: Transitioning from corporate to startup life How to handle startup challenges with faith and grit Why title fraud is rising—and how to protect yourself The role of faith in overcoming entrepreneurial obstacles Practical tips for proactive financial stewardship Key Takeaways: Experience often outweighs theoretical knowledge Passion is critical to push through valleys in business Title monitoring isn't enough—protection must be proactive Christian entrepreneurs must balance vision, obedience, and strategy Customer service rooted in human connection is a key differentiator Links & Resources:

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Lailan Bento—a trailblazing real estate broker, community advocate, and proud Native Hawaiian—who brings a unique perspective shaped by politics, culture, and a lifelong commitment to mentorship.Lailan shares her journey from growing up surrounded by the Aloha spirit to transforming lives through real estate and public service. Her story weaves together cultural integrity, leadership with heart, and the role of mastermind communities in elevating personal and professional growth.Whether you're navigating your own career path, building a business, or simply seeking inspiration from women leading with purpose, this episode delivers practical wisdom for all stages of life. From embracing change to staying rooted in values, Lailan reminds us that community connection and mentorship can drive profound impact.Guest Links & Additional Episode Mentions:Website: https://lailanbento.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lailanbento/ Want to be a guest? If you have a mentor moment that could inspire someone else DM us GUEST on Instagram, or Apply to be a guest here: https://www.ranialfers.com/apply-to-be-a-guest/Connect with our community on: https://www.instagram.com/workingwomenmentor/

In this episode of the Data Science Salon Podcast, we are joined by Praveena Dhanalakota, the Founder & CEO of Soopra.ai, a San Francisco-based startup that is revolutionizing industries with AI-driven solutions. Praveena is an AI expert, tech evangelist, and a passionate advocate for using technology to address real-world challenges. In this episode, she shares her inspiring journey as an entrepreneur, her mission to solve people's problems with AI, and her vision for the future of technology. Key Highlights: - Praveena talks about the human impact of AI, sharing examples of how her company is using AI to create scalable solutions that improve people's lives. - The Startup Journey: challenges and triumphs of building Soopra.ai, offering valuable insights into the startup world and the importance of solving real, practical problems with technology. - The Future of AI: thoughts on the most exciting trends in AI, where the industry is headed, and how AI can address societal challenges like healthcare, education, and sustainability. - As a female founder, Praveena offers advice and inspiration for women aspiring to make their mark in the tech world. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in the future of AI, the startup ecosystem, or how technology can be harnessed to solve pressing human challenges.

Show NotesGuest: Chris Vance, CEO of Playground SessionsWebsite: playgroundsessions.comSocials:InstagramTikTokThreadsKey topics:Chris's journey from corporate to entrepreneurshipHow Playground Sessions revolutionizes music learningBuilding a global brand with strong retention ratesMarketing strategies: SEO, app store optimization, PR, and influencer collaborationsImportance of balance, personal growth, and lifelong learningThe evolving world of digital piano learning and gamificationChris's best advice: Stay focused, learn deeply, and lead with integrityConnect with Chris: LinkedInCheck out Playground Sessions: playgroundsessions.comKey Questions(00:59) How did you end up where you are today?(04:12)  Who is your ideal avatar nowadays?(05:31) So do schools utilize you guys as well?(06:24) Is it just piano or do you have other instruments, too?(06:35)  How do you get in front of your customers?(09:20) Do you do anything for referrals?(10:40) You mentioned a goal being expanding to other instruments like guitar Are there any other big goals that you have in the next year or two?(12:33) What do you feel is your number one roadblock from reaching that? Is it just customer retention or do you think it's more?(14:20) Can you talk to us a little bit about bootstrapping and scaling and some lessons that you've learned along the way?(17:14) How has it been for you to intersect, combine your music and the technology and your community all together?(19:30) Can you walk us through? I want to learn how to play. I have a keyboard, piano. I get your app, then what? How does it work?(22:36) What's the best advice that you have ever been given, that you've ever received?(25:47)  What's the best advice you have ever given?(30:35) Is there something that we haven't touched on yet that you did want to talk about?(31:42) How do you manage or balance your time?(33:37)  Where can we learn about you and what you do?Chris Vanceplaygroundsessions.comhttps://www.instagram.com/playgroundsessions/profilecard/?igsh=d3p1dGpjbWFla3Bphttps://www.tiktok.com/@playgroundsessions?_t=8qxYEpPo5nD&_r=1https://www.threads.net/@playgroundsessionsVirginia PurnellFunnel & Visibility SpecialistDistinct Digital Marketing(833) 762-5336virginia@distinctdigitalmarketing.comwww.distinctdigitalmarketing.comwww.distinctdigitalmarketing.co

Peter shares how they confirmed PMF, got funded (after nearly shutting down) and eventually nailed their beachhead. (00:07:52) Decision to start (00:13:05) VC Rejection (00:16:50) Surviving Financial Struggles in Startup Journey (00:30:14) All in moment - focus shift (00:34:16) Break through (00:41:40) Resilience

In this episode, Jenn Harper, founder and CEO of Cheekbone Beauty Cosmetics and 2025 recipient of Retail Council Canada's Independent Retail Ambassador of the Year award, joins me on the mic. Our inspiring conversation explores Jenn's remarkable journey from food industry sales to building a nationally recognized Indigenous beauty brand now available in Sephora, Canada, and JCPenney.Jenn's entrepreneurial story begins with a vivid dream in January 2015 featuring Indigenous girls covered in lip gloss, just months after she got sober from battling alcoholism. Her discovery of generational trauma stemming from her grandparents' residential school experience became the driving force behind creating a brand that could break cycles and build something meaningful for Indigenous communities.The conversation reveals how personal tragedy - losing her brother BJ to suicide just before launching - nearly ended the venture but ultimately became the motivation to persevere through countless challenges. Jenn candidly discusses the mental resilience required for entrepreneurship, comparing the journey to Nike founder Phil Knight's struggles detailed in "Shoe Dog."Cheekbone Beauty has carved out a unique position in the competitive cosmetics market by pioneering what Jenn calls "indigenous beauty" - products that are clean and safe for humans and genuinely sustainable for the planet. The brand eliminates harmful ingredients like dimethicone and isodiacaine that negatively impact aquatic ecosystems, directly connecting to Indigenous land stewardship values.Jenn shares crucial insights about customer loyalty and product-market fit, revealing their impressive 55-65% customer return rate compared to the industry average of 30%. Their hero product, the UniFi complexion pencils, has revolutionized how customers think about the foundation by promoting natural skin visibility while providing beneficial skincare properties.The discussion covers modern marketing realities for independent brands, with Jenn emphasizing that authentic user-generated content from real customers far outperforms expensive influencer campaigns. She details costly lessons learned from failed marketing initiatives in 2024, confirming that scrappy, organic marketing remains most effective for small brands.Jenn positions artificial intelligence as essential for competitive survival while acknowledging environmental concerns that sustainable businesses must consider in their impact reporting. She views AI as potentially levelling the playing field initially, though she expects larger corporations to capitalize on these tools quickly.The episode provides valuable advice for fellow entrepreneurs, with Jenn emphasizing speed and leveraging available tools while learning from mistakes quickly. Jenn's target demographic of 35-55-year-old women challenges assumptions about indigenous beauty brands, with Fair Shades being their top sellers.This conversation offers inspiration and practical insights for independent retailers, beauty entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in building purpose-driven businesses that create positive community impact while achieving commercial success. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.

What do beach volleyball, Bermuda, and business breakthroughs have in common?Meet Allison Lacoursiere—former national athlete turned powerhouse entrepreneur—who's proving that mindset, not just hustle, is the real game-changer. In this episode, she shares how she built a thriving coaching business during a global shutdown, why she ditched the burnout grind, and how showing up fully as herself unlocked her biggest wins yet.In this episode, Tyler Jorgenson sits down with the powerhouse behind Clear Coaching to unpack her journey from small-town Alberta to managing a multimillion-dollar dental office by age 24. But that was just her warm-up. Fueled by mindset mastery and a desire to create more than just systems, Allison launched her own coaching business—in the middle of a pandemic, no less—and never looked back.They dive deep into the gritty, unfiltered realities of entrepreneurship: imposter syndrome, work-life blend, and knowing when it's time to shut down a business that doesn't serve your soul anymore. Allison gets candid about her own burnout, her obsession with hustle culture, and how balancing masculine structure with feminine intuition completely transformed her approach to business—and life.Whether you're a woman in business craving alignment or an entrepreneur stuck on autopilot, this conversation delivers clarity, laughter, and practical mindset shifts. Allison's upcoming book, her journey to saying yes only to what lights her up, and her powerful insight about embodying your future self makes this a must-listen for anyone ready to stop surviving and start thriving.TakeawaysMindset trumps skillset: Business success starts in your head before it hits your spreadsheets.You're not an imposter, you're evolving: Growth often feels awkward because you haven't caught up with who you're becoming.Authenticity isn't just nice—it's necessary: Burnout often begins when we say yes to things that don't align.You don't need 100% qualification to start: Action creates confidence, not the other way around.Business is personal: Create a life that fuels your business, not the other way around.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Personal Journey02:51 Lessons from Sports: Mindset and Performance05:56 Navigating Challenges in Business08:56 Recognizing Opportunities During the Pandemic11:54 The Importance of Alignment and Authenticity15:02 Empowering Women in Business17:59 Future Vision and Personal Growth20:51 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies24:08 Looking Ahead: Goals and Aspirations

In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we sit down with Alan Shields—entrepreneur, board advisor, speaker, and co-founder of RFI Global. With over two decades of experience scaling a two-person startup into a global data insights powerhouse, Alan shares his leadership journey, the importance of storytelling, and what it really takes to build a business that lasts. From physics to financial services, Alan's path is grounded in curiosity, strategic thinking, and a clear passion for helping others grow. Whether you're an aspiring founder, a team leader, or someone navigating your next big leap, this episode is filled with practical wisdom you'll want to carry forward. Key Insights from Alan's Odyssey: ~ Curiosity is the foundation of great leadership. Alan explains why curiosity can't be taught—and why it's the single most important trait he looks for when hiring and mentoring. ~ Storytelling is a leadership superpower. With over 3,000 presentations under his belt, Alan shares how he structures compelling narratives using the SCQA method—situation, complication, question, and answer. ~ Build the right team, not just a big one. From day one at RFI, Alan focused on diverse, values-aligned talent. The result? A high-performing global team with over 24 nationalities—driven by curiosity, not just credentials. ~ Founders don't have to do it all. Alan opens up about the moment he realised he wasn't the right person to take RFI Global to the next level—and why self-awareness is a core part of leadership. ~ Startup lessons are meant to be shared. From writing The Startup Handbook to mentoring emerging founders, Alan reflects on why giving back is now central to his purpose. Alan's odyssey is a masterclass in scaling with heart, humility, and clarity. His approach to leadership—grounded in thoughtful reflection and bold decision-making—is a reminder that success isn't just about building big, it's about building well. Whether you're on day one or year ten of your own journey, Alan's story will leave you inspired to ask better questions, back yourself, and lead with intent. Connect with Alan Shields: LinkedIn | RFI Global Website | The Startup Handbook Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram | Website This episode is brought to you by: Thebeautychef | Airwallex

Send us a textWhat really happens behind the image of a “perfect life”? In this compelling episode of the Starter Girlz Podcast, host Jennifer Loehding speaks with Eileen Noyes—a former NFL wife turned entrepreneur, speaker, and founder of Lady Bellator—about her powerful journey from public visibility to personal freedom.Eileen shares how she walked away from a toxic marriage with eight children and rebuilt her life through faith, forgiveness, and fierce resilience. Her story is for anyone feeling stuck, silenced, or ready to rise again.In this episode, you'll learn:How to find purpose through painThe power of forgiveness in reclaiming your voiceEntrepreneurial tips for moms and women starting overTools for navigating empty nesting and identity lossHow to break free from shame and societal labelsWhether you're navigating heartbreak, launching a new chapter, or searching for direction, this conversation offers encouragement, truth, and practical inspiration for your startup journey.

Send us a textHave you ever felt like it's too late to chase your dream? In this episode, corporate accounting manager and first-time author Anastasia Robinson shares how she finally wrote her book after 20 years of waiting. Her powerful story will inspire anyone who's been holding onto a dream for far too long and show you that it's never too late to start.Anastasia reveals how she overcame excuses, leaned on accountability partners, and built daily writing habits to finally finish her book. Her story offers a roadmap for mid-career authors, aspiring creatives, and anyone seeking personal growth or a spark of motivation. If you've been stuck, this is your wake-up call.In this episode, you'll learn:How to overcome excuses and stop self-sabotageThe importance of accountability and consistency in achieving your goalsHow to build sustainable habits that lead to long-term successThe power of starting small and building momentum toward your dreamsIf you've been stuck or waiting for the right time to start, this episode is your wake-up call.Don't forget to subscribe for more inspiring success stories, entrepreneur motivation, and advice to help you on your startup journey.

Gene Tunny interviews William ‘Bill' Welser IV, the visionary behind Lotic, an AI startup designed to transform personal data into actionable insights while protecting user privacy. Bill discusses how Lotic's AI-powered digital companion is designed to help users make better decisions, improve mental health, and understand their behavior patterns. The episode dives into ethical considerations, data security, and the economic implications of widespread AI adoption.Please let Gene know your thoughts on this episode by emailing him at contact@economicsexplored.com.TimestampsIntroduction (0:00)Bill Welser's Vision for Lotic AI (3:14)Data Collection and User Interaction (6:18)Behavioral Insights and Health Applications (14:20)Privacy and Legal Considerations (32:51)User Demographics and Market Reach (34:58)Startup Journey and Future Plans (44:12)TakeawaysPersonalized AI as a Digital Companion: Lotic aims to transform individuals from passive data subjects into active agents by providing personalized insights. The AI helps users understand themselves better, make small behavioral changes, and potentially improve mental health, relationships, and job satisfaction.Privacy and Ethical Data Collection: Bill Welser emphasizes a deliberate, privacy-first approach to data collection. Lotic uses advanced cryptography, blockchain technology, and user-controlled data sharing to protect personal information, ensuring users have agency over their data and insights.Potential Economic Impact of AI: Welser suggests that as AI disrupts traditional job markets, individuals could leverage their personal data as a form of currency. He believes creating comprehensive, discrete personal data sets could help mitigate potential unemployment waves and provide new economic opportunities for people.Links relevant to the conversationLotic website:https://www.lotic.ai/CEO Magazine profile of Bill Welser IV:https://digitalmag.theceomagazine.com/william-welser-iv/?r=globalEverybody Lies: Big Data, New Data, and What the Internet Can Tell Us about Who We Really Arehttps://www.amazon.com.au/Everybody-Lies-Internet-About-Really/dp/0062390856Lumo Coffee promotion10% of Lumo Coffee's Seriously Healthy Organic Coffee.Website: https://www.lumocoffee.com/10EXPLOREDPromo code: 10EXPLORED Full transcripts are available a few days after the episode is first published at www.economicsexplored.com.

Meryl Kennedy, CEO of Four Sisters Rice, is reshaping the future of farming with family, sustainability, and purpose. In this episode of Owning Your Legacy, Meryl shares how she transformed her father's commodity rice operation into a nationally recognized consumer brand—while redefining leadership in a male-dominated industry.From launching a cutting-edge rice mill at 21 to securing shelf space in Walmart and Kroger, Meryl's journey is a powerful example of what happens when legacy meets innovation. If you care about female founders, branding, and building a business with heart, this conversation will resonate deeply.

Sand Hill Road Host Scott McGrew spoke with Larry Gadea, CEO and founder of Envoy, to learn more about his early days at Twitter, now known as X, and Google and what led him to make the entrepreneurial jump. Sand Hill Road is hosted by Scott McGrew. Sara Bueno manages NBC Bay Area's digital platforms. Stephanie Adrouny is the station's news director. If you'd like to get in touch, email us at sandhillroad@nbcuni.com or on any social media platform at @nbcbayarea.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | Pocket CastsIn This Episode:* What is a Solid State Transformer * How Solid State Transformers are Reshaping the Energy Industry* How They Built a $1bn PipelineSponsors:Goodwin: The Law Firm of Choice for ClimateTech EntrepreneursErthTech Talent: Affordable CleanTech Search FirmWhat's up, everyone!Today, we have a great episode with Haroon Inam & Michael Wood III from DG Matrix. We're talking about a simple technology that can fundamentally reshape the energy industry by transforming electricity more efficiently and with way less physical space than what's been done traditionally.Take an EV charger, for example. You need to get the exact electricity flow right. Usually, that would take a few parking spaces' worth of transformers. With DG Matrix, you can do it with a simple power stand smaller than your refrigerator.This is still the case even if you've got solar, batteries, or other distributed resources all mixed in together. They can handle all the streams of electricity in and out.It's clear the industry is loving this too. They have over $1bn of pipeline to date.We got Haroon and Michael, so it's a great episode._____Want to access all our content? Upgrade to paid today. Act fast! Annual subscriptions increase to $100 on May 1st (currently $80)._____TopicsFree Version:**03:21 The Journey to DG Matrix**05:51 Understanding Solid State Transformers**09:11 Market Position and Economic Impact**10:00 Goodwin AD**12:06 Solid State Transformer Advantages**13:26 Company AD**17:14 Building a Strong Advisory Network**18:51 Call to Action**21:10 Overcoming Challenges in Clean Tech**24:54 The Future of DG Matrix and Market Fit**26:29 Building from the Ground Up**27:51 Transforming Energy Markets**30:55 Streamlining Manufacturing and Supply ChainLinks* Haroon Inam, Michael Wood III | DG Matrix* Connect with Somil on LinkedIn | Connect with Silas on LinkedIn* Follow CleanTechies on LinkedInThis podcast is NOT investment advice. Do your homework and due diligence before investing in anything discussed on this podcast.Support the showEvery ClimateTech Entrepreneur needs a reliable partner for their legal needs. Why settle for less than the best?

From Scrappy Startup to Powering Brands Like Nike | Mark Michael's DevHub Story In this episode of On The Homefront, Jeff Dudan sits down with Mark Michael, CEO and Co-Founder of DevHub. What started as a scrappy startup running on empty grew into a digital platform trusted by global brands like Nike and Chanel. Mark shares the real journey: how they burned through $2M fast, faced massive setbacks, stuck together, and built a multi-location web platform that's redefining how brands show up online. They dig into startup lessons, franchise growth, the future of SEO and AI, and why building your brand — not just your business — will separate the winners from the rest. If you're an entrepreneur, a franchisor, a digital marketer, or anyone chasing big dreams, this raw conversation will hit home. ✅ Learn how to survive startup struggles ✅ Understand why the future of search is changing fast ✅ Find out why owning your digital front door matters more than ever ✅ Hear the real lessons behind scaling DevHub into a brand powerhouse

From Scrappy Startup to Powering Brands Like Nike | Mark Michael's DevHub Story In this episode of On The Homefront, Jeff Dudan sits down with Mark Michael, CEO and Co-Founder of DevHub. What started as a scrappy startup running on empty grew into a digital platform trusted by global brands like Nike and Chanel. Mark shares the real journey: how they burned through $2M fast, faced massive setbacks, stuck together, and built a multi-location web platform that's redefining how brands show up online. They dig into startup lessons, franchise growth, the future of SEO and AI, and why building your brand — not just your business — will separate the winners from the rest. If you're an entrepreneur, a franchisor, a digital marketer, or anyone chasing big dreams, this raw conversation will hit home. ✅ Learn how to survive startup struggles ✅ Understand why the future of search is changing fast ✅ Find out why owning your digital front door matters more than ever ✅ Hear the real lessons behind scaling DevHub into a brand powerhouse

On this episode, Stewart Alsop talks with Suman Kanuganti, founder of Personal.ai and a pioneer in AI for accessibility and human-machine collaboration. Together, they explore how Suman's journey from launching Aira to building Personal.ai reflects a deeper mission of creating technology that enhances memory, communication, and personal empowerment. They touch on entrepreneurship, inclusive design, and the future of AI as a personal extension of human potential. For more information, visit the Personal.ai website or connect with Suman on LinkedIn.Check out this GPT we trained on the conversation!Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Suman Kanuganti and the vision behind Personal.ai, setting the stage with AI for accessibility and personal empowerment.05:00 Discussing the startup journey, the leap from corporate life to entrepreneurship, and the founding of Aira with a focus on inclusive technology.10:00 Deep dive into communication empowerment, how Aira built independence for the blind community, and lessons learned from solving real-world problems.15:00 Transitioning from Aira to Personal.ai, exploring memory extension and the future of personal communication through AI models.20:00 Addressing privacy, ownership of personal data, and why trust is fundamental in the development of personalized AI systems.25:00 Vision of human-machine collaboration, future scenarios where AI supports memory, creativity, and human potential without replacing human agency.30:00 Closing reflections on entrepreneurship, building technology with deep purpose, and how inclusive design drives innovation for everyone.Key InsightsPersonalized AI is the Next Evolution in Human Communication: Suman Kanuganti emphasizes that AI is moving beyond generic tools and into deeply personal territory, where each individual can have an AI modeled after their own thoughts, memories, and style of communication. This evolution is aimed at making technology an extension of the self rather than a replacement.Accessibility Technologies Have Broader Applications: Through his work with Aira, Suman discovered that building tools for accessibility often results in innovations that serve a much wider audience. By designing with people with disabilities in mind, entrepreneurs can create more universally empowering technologies that enhance independence for everyone.Entrepreneurship Requires a Deep Sense of Purpose: Suman's transition from corporate engineering to entrepreneurship was fueled by a personal desire to create meaningful change. He highlights that a strong mission—like empowering individuals through technology—helps sustain entrepreneurs through the inevitable challenges and uncertainties of building startups.Memory Is a Key Frontier for AI Development: One of the core ideas discussed is that memory preservation and recall is an essential human function that AI can augment. Personal.ai aims to assist individuals by organizing and retrieving personal memories and knowledge, offering a future where mental workload is reduced without losing personal agency.Building Trust Is Critical in Personal AI: Suman stresses that for AI to become truly personal and trusted, users must retain ownership and control over their data. Personal.ai is designed with privacy and individual autonomy at its core, reflecting a future where users dictate how their information is stored, accessed, and shared.The Best Innovations Come from Solving Specific, Real Problems: Rather than chasing trends, Suman advocates for entrepreneurs to focus on tangible problems they understand deeply. His success with Aira stemmed from addressing a clear need in the blind community, and that same principle now drives the mission behind Personal.ai—addressing the growing problem of information overload and memory fragmentation.Human-AI Symbiosis Will Define the Future: Suman paints a future where humans and AI work symbiotically, each complementing the other's strengths. Instead of replacing human intelligence, the best AI systems will support cognitive functions like memory, creativity, and communication, ultimately expanding what individuals can achieve personally and professionally.

What if your phone paid you for using it? In this electric episode of the Let's Go Win Podcast, JM sits down with Dan Novaes, CEO of Mode Mobile and creator of the EarnPhone, to unpack his wild journey from eBay hustler to tech visionary. Dan shares how a $5 Fiverr gig led to a multimillion-dollar app, why rewarding users for their screen time is the future, and how crowdfunding 40,000+ shareholders flipped the startup game on its head.In this episode, you'll learn:How Dan turned pivots into profitsWhy the EarnPhone could disrupt the $1T mobile marketHow to raise millions without a single VCWhat Dan does weekly to stay focused and creativeTactical advice for young entrepreneurs and aspiring CEOsWhy buying businesses might be smarter than starting oneThis isn't just an episode—it's a roadmap to modern entrepreneurship. Whether you're a founder, investor, or just phone-obsessed, you'll walk away with insights that could change your trajectory.Visit Dan's website: https://invest.modemobile.comWatch episodes on YouTube and subscribe to our channel!https://www.youtube.com/@letsgowin

In this episode of the Tech M&A Podcast, Scott Petersen shares his journey of selling his all-in-one hiring solution software, HireClick. He discusses the motivations behind the sale, the importance of being prepared, and the lessons learned throughout the process. Scott reflects on life after the sale, the excitement of new opportunities, and offers valuable advice for CEOs considering selling their companies.   takeaways HireClick was sold in August 2024 after starting in 2017. Inbound interest from potential buyers prompted the decision to sell. Scott felt they waited too long to engage with professionals. Preparation is key to a successful sale process. Life after selling the business has its ups and downs. Scott is excited about future travel and opportunities. The transition to the acquiring company has been positive. Professional guidance was crucial in garnering attention from buyers. Understanding market interest is vital for timing a sale. Scott emphasizes the importance of metrics and readiness for potential acquirers. 00:00 Introduction to Tech M&A Podcast 00:32 Scott Petersen and HireClick's Journey 02:52 Reflections on Selling the Business 03:42 Advice for CEOs on Selling 04:19 Looking Ahead: Life After the Sale

#70: Welcome back to the Lenders playbook podcast episode 70 with Noel Felix!  We're catching up with a guest who's been grinding hard behind the scenes since epidose #9—running multiple businesses, growing his family, and riding through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship.In this episode, we'll dive into what he's been building, the incredible things his daughter Sophia is up to, and some of the toughest and most rewarding moments from the past year.From bull riding lessons that oddly mirror business life, you'll hear stories that inspire, advice that hits home, and wins that prove the hustle's worth it. Especially if you remember it wasnt that long ago...So buckle up, because this episode is loaded with some raw lessons and tons of hear.Let's get into it.

With an impressive background at Meta, eBay, McDonald's, and Target, Anya shares her transition from corporate to startup life, the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, and her mission to reinvent fashion for men who want to look great without the hassle.From her Taiwanese roots and experience in Silicon Valley to building one of the most innovative fashion-tech brands for men, Anya discusses product iteration, AI styling, brand partnerships, sustainability, and the vision to make Taelor a global platform for modern professionals.

Send us a textIn this episode of TacoBytes, Una Japundza sits down with Doug Dosberg, founder of HeyTaco, to dive into the origin story of everyone's favorite peer recognition tool. From his early days at The Motley Fool to his unexpected leap into building a culture-shaping product, Doug shares the behind-the-scenes moments that brought HeyTaco to life.You'll hear how a frustrating experience with clunky HR software sparked a big idea, how game design principles helped fuel user engagement, and why Doug chose customer funding over investor dollars. This is a conversation about building with intention, staying close to your users, and why recognition works best when it's peer-powered and intrinsically motivated.Key TakeawaysDoug spent 11 years at The Motley Fool, where he focused on building tools to improve employee experience.HeyTaco was born out of frustration with a clunky, top-down HR tool—Doug wanted something simple, joyful, and people-first.He intentionally designed HeyTaco as a bottom-up platform, where feedback and recognition flow peer-to-peer.Game design theory played a major role in shaping the product's engagement mechanics.The very first version didn't even feature tacos—it all started with the beer emoji.

When you combine X Games gold medals, restaurant dreams, and a DIY teardrop trailer built in a garage with hand tools from Home Depot—you get Escapod. In this episode, Tyler Jorgenson sits down with Jen and Chris Hudak, the powerhouse couple behind Escapod Trailers, to unpack their rugged road to success. From competitive ski slopes to the rocky startup terrain of entrepreneurship, Jen and Chris share how their unique talents (and willingness to sleep in tight quarters with two kids and a dog) helped them build a cult-followed adventure brand.But don't be fooled—this isn't your average glamping origin story. We dive into their startup days launching in a mother-in-law's garage, the art of risk-taking, and what it's like to find product-market fit by accident while racing mountain bikes. They share the real behind-the-scenes of growing a business as a married couple, evolving past founder mode, and how they're scaling Escapod into a high-performance brand while keeping their marriage, sanity, and camping gear intact.As they gear up to launch their new mountain bike-specific trailer at the Sea Otter Classic, Jen and Chris reflect on the highs, the whack-a-mole challenges of founder life, and why sometimes your customers know better than you do. Plus, find out who their dream brand ambassador is (hint: think cliffs, cameras, and killer calves). Whether you're an adrenaline junkie, gearhead, or weekend warrior dreaming of a side hustle—this one's a wild ride.Key TakeawaysFrom X Games to Escapod: Jen's competitive drive and Chris's resourcefulness collided to create more than a company—it sparked an aspirational lifestyle brand for adventure seekers.Build it and They Will Ask Questions: Their original trailer wasn't built to sell—but became a business idea after it attracted attention on mountain biking trips. Early validation came not from pitches, but from pure curiosity.Grow Together or Bust: As co-founders and spouses, balancing roles (and diapers) while scaling a company meant scheduling intentional family time, leaning into their opposite skillsets, and letting go of ego to evolve the brand.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Escapod Trailers01:44 The Entrepreneurial Journey Begins03:20 From Garage to Business05:01 Identifying Market Gaps07:20 Defining Roles in the Partnership08:40 Realizing Business Potential11:00 Overcoming Challenges as Founders13:44 Unique Adventures with Escapod Trailers16:30 Dream Collaborations and Future Plans17:33 Innovations in Trailer Design19:22 Listening to Customer Feedback21:59 Balancing Business and Personal Life26:31 Future Aspirations and Bucket Lists

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Cassidy Macken shares her inspiring journey of starting Cassidy's Beauty Academy.  From her early passion for beauty to the challenges of running a business while raising children, Cassidy discusses the importance of education in the beauty industry and her drive to fill the gaps she identified. She also opens up about her experience with ADHD and how it influences her approach to business. Cassidy emphasises the significance of securing funding and overcoming fears in the entrepreneurial journey, providing valuable insights for aspiring business owners. Cassidy shares her journey of entrepreneurship, discussing the nuances of good and bad debt, the challenges of securing funding, and her experiences as a young mother balancing family and career.   This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Cassidy's journey in the beauty industry at a young age. Balancing motherhood and running a business. Education in the beauty industry. ADHD in business. Stepping out of comfort zones. Adapting to industry trends. Understanding the difference between good and bad debt. Securing funding. Finding the right business location. Having a clear vision for business growth. Taking risks when young.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:03 Inspiration Behind Cassidy's Beauty Academy 10:16 From Beauty to Education 20:02 Navigating the Competitive Beauty Industry 22:02 ADHD in Business 27:49 Securing Startup Funding 28:20 Good Debt vs. Bad Debt 29:51 The Journey to Securing Funding 32:53 Finding the Right Business Location 34:27 Resilience in Business 37:40 Balancing Motherhood and Business 40:05 Vision and Goals for the Business 42:17 Staying Focused on Your Goals 47:11 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs 55:32 Defining Personal Success  

Follow us on YouTube---------Today, we have a great episode with Joe Rodden from Lydian. And we are talking all things eFuels and their story. Lydian uses Co2, Water, and abundant Green Energy to create eFuels/SAF. And because of their flexible run method, they can do it profitably, consistently. In the recent past there has been a huge demand for SAF that has been hard for major airlines to procure. In part because the technology was not there, but mostly because there were no plants up and operating. SAF plants are assumed to look like chemical production facilities… ie: always on. This way the cost of the investment is paid back soon. Lydian made sure they used inexpensive materials to create their system. And they made it to start and stop whenever there is excess electricity being produced. It's a game changer. On top of this, Joe has a great story. A story that I'm sure you'll enjoy on today's episode. Let us know your thoughts by leaving a comment and giving us 5 stars on your favorite podcast app. Support the showEvery ClimateTech Entrepreneur needs a reliable partner for their legal needs. Why settle for less than the best?

On today's episode of The Goats of Growth, I'm joined by Christian Byza, CEO and Co-Founder of Learn.xyz, as he shares his journey from organizing conferences in high school to building an AI-powered B2B learning platform. Christian dives deep into the back story of Learn.xyx , pivoting from consumer to enterprise, and building effective go-to-market strategies. He also shares insights into personal branding, a growth hack you must hear, and how a positive mindset fuels his hustle. Tune in to hear insights on:

Can ambition be sustainable? Can AI scale without consequence?In this powerful episode of the xMonks Drive Podcast, host Gaurav Arora sits down with Gaurav Singh, founder of Verloop, for an unfiltered conversation on building in the age of AI.From growing up in Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, to coding at 10, launching his first projects by 13, and now leading one of India's most ambitious AI startups, Gaurav shares what most founders won't:

In this episode of Zero to CEO, I speak with relentless legal trailblazer Lem Garcia, who turned just a few thousand dollars and a Craigslist desk into one of Southern California's top personal injury law firms. Lem shares his journey of betting on himself, overcoming setbacks, and proving that success isn't about where you start but how hard you're willing to push forward. We dive into the challenges of building a business from scratch, the lessons he learned in leadership and growth, and his best advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to take control of their future. Whether you're an entrepreneur, risk-taker, or simply looking for motivation, this episode is packed with powerful insights on grit, resilience, and turning ambition into success.

In this episode of the Startup CEO Show, host Mark MacLeod sits down with Tyler Denk, co-founder and CEO of Beehiiv, to explore the world of email marketing and the creator economy. Tyler shares the fascinating origin story of Beehiiv, which grew out of his experience building custom tools at Morning Brew. He explains how Beehiiv has become a leading all-in-one platform for creators and brands to grow their audience and monetize their content.Tyler dives deep into Beehiiv's unique value proposition, combining website building, email newsletters, and monetization tools in one seamless platform. He discusses how this integrated approach sets Beehiiv apart from legacy email providers and allows creators to focus on what they do best. The conversation touches on the evolving role of AI in content creation, with Tyler offering nuanced insights on when AI can be helpful and when human creativity is irreplaceable.One of the most compelling parts of the discussion centers on Tyler's leadership philosophy and operational strategies. He shares his commitment to radical transparency, describing how he writes detailed weekly emails to keep his team aligned and motivated. Tyler also reveals how Beehiiv raised its Series A in just six days and its Series B in two weeks, crediting his practice of sending comprehensive monthly investor updates. For aspiring founders and CEOs, this episode is a masterclass in building a high-growth startup with intention and focus. Don't miss Tyler's contrarian views on company size and his emphasis on deep work - tune in now to gain invaluable insights from one of tech's rising stars.

Paddy Cosgrave, founder and CEO of Web Summit, joins me for a fast-paced conversation recorded live at Web Summit Qatar. We talk about how he scaled a 150-person event into one of the world's largest tech conferences, and why the same principles—imagination, naivety, and engineering serendipity—can be applied to anything you want to build. Paddy shares his thoughts on avoiding fear-driven decisions, why big ideas need a bit of “clinical insanity,” and how success often comes down to simply starting—even if you have no idea what you're doing.We also touch on tech hype, unsanitized founders, and why he won't let his kids near addictive apps. This episode is about thinking big, starting small, and taking action—no matter what you're building.Support for the show comes from XM, a leading trading platform. Click here to claim your non-deposit cash bonus! Support for the show comes from Bioniq GO, your personalized supplements. Click here to take the 5 min Quiz and use the code CWL40 to avail 40% on your first order of Bioniq GO! Support for the show comes from XM, a leading trading platform. Click here https://www.xmarabia.net/gw.php?gid=250167 to claim your cash bonus!Support for the show comes from Bioniq GO, your personalized supplements. Click here https://global.bioniq.com/go/loulou?utm_source=CWL&utm_medium=CWL-audio&utm_campaign=CWL0325 to take the 5 min Quizz and use the code CWL40 to avail 40% on your first order of Bioniq GO!

What if there was a way to revolutionize pet care, offering free healthcare to ensure your furry friend is always covered? In this episode of Thrive Loud with Lou Diamond, we dive into the pet insurance industry and discover an innovative solution with guest Rafa Lopez, founder and CEO of Nibbles. Lou and Rafa explore how Nibbles is changing the game by embedding comprehensive pet insurance into a flexible credit card that covers your pet's medical needs while offering rewards for everyday spending. Key highlights of this episode: Discover the untouched potential within the pet insurance market and how Nibbles is addressing this gap. Learn about the unique integration of pet insurance and credit card services that simplifies the claims process for pet owners. Understand the economic efficiencies Nibbles creates for pet owners by pooling customer leverage to negotiate lower rates. Tune in to learn how Nibbles is smartly solving everyday pet care challenges with a modern twist. TIMESTAMPED OVERVIEW 00:00 Millennials Request Pet Insurance 06:15 Pet Insurance Concept: Nibbles Card 09:07 "Nibbles Card: Pet Rewards & Insurance" 11:36 "Nibbles Card Simplifies Vet Payments" 15:26 Challenging Everyday Inertia 18:01 "Secrets to Thriving Daily" 22:43 "April Congrats & Nibbles Promo" Follow Us:

Can remote work and AI transform the future of business? In this episode of the Women in Leadership Talk Podcast, host Vicki Bradley sits down with Brianna Carney, co-founder of Crew Bloom and Betty AI, to explore the power of global recruitment, AI-driven innovation, and the evolving landscape of leadership in remote work.Key Takeaways for Women in Business & Leadership:✔ Happy employees = better results—a strong workplace culture is key.✔ Bootstrapping a business teaches invaluable lessons without investor pressure.✔ Diversity in recruitment leads to stronger, more successful businesses.✔ Testing your ideas in the market is essential for entrepreneurial successWant to know how you show up as a leader? Take our FREE Leadership Quiz for insights and exclusive goodies!

Connect with me on: All my links Become a guest Sign up for Riverside Get Descript   #DigitalMarketing #Branding #PersonalBranding #MarketingInsights #SocialMediaStrategy

"Serendipity plays a big role, but you need to chase it, man. You need to [chase it] and you need to perform. You need to deliver [on] your end of the deal." In part two of our conversation with Stavros Papadopoulos, founder of TileDB, we delve into his journey from academia to entrepreneurship. Stavros shares his experiences at MIT and Intel, and the serendipitous events that led to the founding of his company. He details the transition from working on cutting-edge database systems to identifying a market need in the life sciences sector, particularly in handling complex genomic data. Stavros's background in computer science and his work at the intersection of Intel and MIT uniquely positioned him to tackle the challenges of building a new type of database system. His journey highlights the importance of proactivity, networking, and being prepared for unexpected opportunities. He also shares valuable insights on the realities of starting a database company, including the significant funding requirements and the necessity of continuous learning.

Send us a textIn this episode, our host Kaleem Clarkson, joined by guest co-host Laurel Farrer, dives into the compelling journey of entrepreneur Bo Abrams, co-founder of Kommu, a revolutionary home-sharing platform. Bo's evolution—from a spirited youth navigating diverse environments to an innovative leader tackling inefficiencies in the home-sharing industry—is both impressive and full of insightful turns.Bo's unique upbringing as part of a nationally ranked basketball team alongside hip-hop legend Master P exposed him to diverse experiences from a young age. These experiences helped build his confidence, adaptability, and knack for navigating challenges—a foundation that has served him well in his entrepreneurial pursuits. This drive undoubtedly motivated him to earn an MBA from UCLA's Anderson School of Business, all while continuing to pursue his musical endeavors!Bo's professional journey began in finance, where he took an entry-level position at a hedge fund, likening the experience to starting in the mailroom. Although the job involved humbling tasks like fetching coffee, it introduced him to ambitious colleagues who inspired his career aspirations. Realizing that the hedge fund path wasn't his true calling, Bo pivoted to operations roles in startups, including a stint at Steelhouse (now Mountain).The inspiration for Kommu struck during a trip to Whitefish, Montana, when Bo encountered the inefficiencies and high costs of home-sharing platforms like Airbnb. He wondered why homeowners couldn't monetize their properties as easily as car owners using platforms like Turo. This lightbulb moment led to the creation of Kommu—a social marketplace designed to offer young people trusted, affordable home-sharing options while fostering a sense of community. Bo envisioned Kommu as a disruptor in the space, providing a more equitable and user-friendly alternative to traditional rental platforms.Bo's partnership with co-founder Gus marked another milestone in Kommu's journey. The two met at UCLA, and their shared vision for transforming the home-sharing market solidified their collaboration. However, the road to success wasn't without sacrifices. Bo candidly shared how his laser focus on career and academic goals led to personal challenges, including the end of a significant relationship. Despite these setbacks, he found strength in his achievements and the unwavering support of family and friends.Take a moment to delve deeper into Kommu's ethos and mission with Laurel and Kaleem's sharp and delightful guidance! Bo's experiences and journey are a testament to the transformative power of resilience, adaptability, and innovation. From a trumpet-playing teenager in Beverly Hills to the co-founder of a disruptive startup, his story underscores the importance of perseverance in overcoming obstacles.Learn more about navigating the startup world, cultivating a growth mindset, and balancing ambition with personal sacrifices! Bo's story—filled with relatable anecdotes and actionable takeaways—serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs and remote professionals alike.Learn more about Bo:Bo's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bo-abrams/Kommu's Webpage: https://www.gokommu.com/ More about us: Remotely One's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/remotelyone Remotely One's Webpage: https://www.remotelyone.com/

Send us a textIn the latest episode of the Lead with Levity podcast, Dr. Heather Walker sits down with Eric Malka, the visionary co-founder of The Art of Shaving, to explore his remarkable path from humble beginnings to building a multimillion-dollar brand.The Art of Starting SmallEric's journey began in a small kitchen, where he and his wife crafted high-quality shaving products with a simple yet powerful mission—elevate the shaving experience. What started as a passion project quickly grew into a thriving business, eventually catching the attention of Procter & Gamble, which later acquired the brand.Lessons from the TrenchesThroughout the conversation, Eric shares invaluable insights on entrepreneurship, emphasizing the power of starting small and learning through experience. Some of his key takeaways include:Build a passionate team – Surrounding yourself with the right people can make all the difference.Embrace the process – Success isn't just about the destination; it's about enjoying the journey.Know when to let go – Understanding when to step away or pivot is crucial for long-term success.Redefining Success & Paying It ForwardWhile financial success is often the focus of entrepreneurship, Eric highlights the importance of redefining success beyond money. Today, through Strategic Brand Investments, he dedicates his time to mentoring and investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs, helping them turn their big dreams into reality.Want to hear more from Eric Malka? Tune in to the full episode of Lead with Levity for a deep dive into his inspiring journey and expert insights!Connect with Eric at https://ericmalka.comSupport the showDid you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!

The Founder Of LoveSac & His Story Most people would laugh off a crazy idea like making a giant beanbag. But instead of moving on, the founder of Lovesac took action—and built a billion-dollar brand in the process. In this episode of On The Homefront, we're breaking down the real story behind Lovesac, from stuffing foam in a basement to going public. You'll hear: ✅ How a homemade beanbag turned into a billion-dollar furniture empire ✅ The brutal challenges of bootstrapping, venture capital, and going public ✅ Why most brands are designed to fail—but Lovesac is built for life ✅ The key to resilience in business (and why you can quit or keep going) If you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or just someone who loves an underdog story, this episode is a must-watch.

The Founder Of LoveSac & His Story Most people would laugh off a crazy idea like making a giant beanbag. But instead of moving on, the founder of Lovesac took action—and built a billion-dollar brand in the process. In this episode of On The Homefront, we're breaking down the real story behind Lovesac, from stuffing foam in a basement to going public. You'll hear: ✅ How a homemade beanbag turned into a billion-dollar furniture empire ✅ The brutal challenges of bootstrapping, venture capital, and going public ✅ Why most brands are designed to fail—but Lovesac is built for life ✅ The key to resilience in business (and why you can quit or keep going) If you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or just someone who loves an underdog story, this episode is a must-watch.

On this episode, Anupam chats with Jimmy Mistry—an iconic designer, hotelier, adventurer, community builder, and real estate developer. They dive into Jimmy’s visionary journey, from creating ultra-luxury lifestyle projects to pioneering India’s first D2C luxury interior brand, Della Luxury Products. He shares insights on craftsmanship, Atmanirbhar Bharat, and his groundbreaking work in experiential hospitality, including the award-winning DATA by Della Resorts. Jimmy also discusses his entrepreneurial spirit, the Della Leaders Club (DLC), and his advice for young entrepreneurs. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on innovation, luxury, and business success!Tune in for a comprehensive guide to securing your financial future!Get in touch with our host Anupam Gupta on social media: Twitter: ( https://twitter.com/b50 ) Instagram: ( https://www.instagram.com/b_50/ ) LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/anupam9gupta/ ) You can listen to this show and other awesome shows on the IVM Podcasts website at https://www.ivmpodcasts.com/ You can watch the full video episodes of PaisaVaisapodcast on the YouTube channel. Do follow IVM Podcasts on social media. We are @ivmpodcasts on Facebook, Twitter, & InstagramSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to this week's episode of Sit Down Startup! Today, host Adam O'Donnell sits down with Mark Doble, Co-Founder of Alexi, to explore his inspiring journey in the legal tech space and the challenges of achieving product-market fit while raising over $10 million in funding.Join us as Mark shares his experiences transitioning from law to entrepreneurship, the pivotal moments that tested his resolve, and how Alexi is revolutionizing legal research through innovative AI solutions. He emphasizes the importance of conviction, adaptability, and understanding market needs in building a successful startup.(00:00:00) The Low Points: Overcoming Adversity in the Early Days of Alexi(00:03:40) From Law School to Startup: Finding the Path to Entrepreneurship(00:09:23) The Turning Point: Achieving Product-Market Fit with Customer Validation(00:15:40) First Principles Thinking: Innovating in Legal Tech Beyond Conventional WisdomApply to the Zendesk for Startups program. Qualifying startups can use Zendesk for six months for free. Click to learn more: https://www.zendesk.com/lp/startup-partner/?ref=gen&partner_account=0016R00003GUn7OQAT

Join host Nick Constantino as he chats with the team from Zero FG, a dynamic startup energy drink company. Discover how Zero FG emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic and created a unique lifestyle brand. Learn about their product development journey, marketing strategies, and the challenges they've faced in the competitive energy drink market. With insights from Sara Lynn (Director of Social Media), Brandon Grubbs (Director of Operations), and Jack Spencer (Marketing), this episode offers a fascinating look into the world of energy drinks and the drive behind Zero FG. #MarketingMadMen #ZeroFG #EnergyDrinks #StartupJourney #Branding #LifestyleMarketing #CaffeineCulture #COVID19Innovation Key Takeaways: Insights into the rise of the energy drink industry The unique origin story of Zero FG Balancing product health considerations and flavor Strategies for driving consumer action through marketing The impact of NIL deals on brand visibility and growth Discover Zero FG's journey in the energy drink industry, from product development to marketing strategies, on Marketing MadMen with Nick Constantino. #ZeroFG #MarketingMadMenpatreon.com/TheMarketingMadMen: https://www.nick-constantino.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Alice Li, founder and CEO of First Day, shares her journey of building a values-driven company in the health and wellness space. Discover how her family's history shaped the brand and its mission to prevent nutritional trauma for future generations. Alice discusses the art of connecting with modern moms—the primary household purchasers—and the significance of authenticity and trust in a crowded vitamin market. Gain insights on effective marketing strategies, product development, and the importance of adapting to consumer preferences. Don't miss this fascinating conversation on standing out in the wellness industry. Subscribe now for a dose of inspiration and entrepreneurial wisdom.   

John Knific is a serial entrepreneur and investor who has built three venture-backed software companies here in Cleveland.His latest venture, Squad, is a peer discovery platform designed to gamify ratings and rankings for Gen Z, starting on college campuses, delivering valuable preference data to marketers.Before Squad, John co-founded Wisr, a virtual communities platform that transformed how universities engage students. Wisr ultimately served nearly one million active users before being acquired by the Education Advisory Board (EAB) and Vista Equity in 2021. For those interested in diving deeper into Wisr's story, I'd recommend checking out ​Episode 35 of Lay of The Land​, where Kate Volzer, one of John's co-founders shared her perspective on their journey!John's entrepreneurial journey began with Decision Desk, a company he started out of his dorm room as a student at Case Western Reserve University when he was still on a music and pre-medicine track and ultimately raised $6mm in venture funding for.Today, alongside building Squad, John is also a co-founder of K2 Venture Partners where he and Kris Ciccarello, his other co-founder from Wisr, invest in and advises regional startups.In our conversation, we'll cover how John has evolved as a founder, his philosophy on product management and go-to-market strategy, the intersection of jazz and entrepreneurship, opportunities in education and ed-tech, building for enterprise vs consumers, mentorship, and lots more lessons learned from his journey across three startups.-----LINKS:https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnknific/https://www.k2vp.com/https://getsquad.app/-----SPONSORS: Impact Architects & NinetyImpact Architects & NinetyLay of The Land is brought to you by Ninety. As a Lay of The Land listener, you can leverage a free trial with Ninety, the platform that helps teams build great companies and the only officially licensed software for EOS® — used by over 7,000 companies and 100,000 users!This episode is brought to you by Impact Architects. As we share the stories of entrepreneurs building incredible organizations throughout NEO, Impact Architects helps those leaders — many of whom we've heard from as guests on Lay of The Land — realize their visions and build great organizations. I believe in Impact Architects and the people behind it so much, that I have actually joined them personally in their mission to help leaders gain focus, align together, and thrive by doing what they love! As a listener, you can sit down for a free consultation with Impact Architects by visiting ia.layoftheland.fm!-----Stay up to date by signing up for Lay of The Land's weekly newsletter — sign up here.Past guests include Justin Bibb (Mayor of Cleveland), Pat Conway (Great Lakes Brewing), Steve Potash (OverDrive), Umberto P. Fedeli (The Fedeli Group), Lila Mills (Signal Cleveland), Stewart Kohl (The Riverside Company), Mitch Kroll (Findaway — Acquired by Spotify), and over 200 other Cleveland Entrepreneurs.Connect with Jeffrey Stern on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreypstern/Follow Jeffrey Stern on X @sternJefe — https://twitter.com/sternjefeFollow Lay of The Land on X @podlayofthelandhttps://www.jeffreys.page/

Rob van Haaren is a Dutch-born entrepreneur and CEO of Proximal Energy, a Cleveland-based SaaS company transforming asset management for solar and energy storage projects.Rob has long been interested in renewable energy engineering — he holds a Master's from Columbia University in Earth and Environmental Engineering and a PhD from Columbia as well with a focus on utility-scale energy storage optimization and engineering. He also has over a decade of experience blending bridging academia and industry, working as a photovoltaic and storage analyst at First Solar.Since founding Proximal, Rob leads a remote AI-driven team to deliver advanced analytics and agentic tools that help large asset managers optimize performance and reliability in utility-scale projects spanning multiple gigawatt hours of storage.In addition to his work at Proximal, he is also an Expert in Residence at BRITE Energy Innovators, which we've heard about from Rick Stockburger back on Episode 161.As you'll hear in our conversation today, Rob is an engineer, a problem solver, and a deep thinker who is passionate about transforming the way society manages utility-scale energy, and we're lucky to now have him as a founder in Cleveland!-----LINKS:- https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-van-haaren/- https://proximal.energy/-----SPONSORS: Impact Architects & NinetyImpact Architects & NinetyLay of The Land is brought to you by Ninety. As a Lay of The Land listener, you can leverage a free trial with Ninety, the platform that helps teams build great companies and the only officially licensed software for EOS® — used by over 7,000 companies and 100,000 users!This episode is brought to you by Impact Architects. As we share the stories of entrepreneurs building incredible organizations throughout NEO, Impact Architects helps those leaders — many of whom we've heard from as guests on Lay of The Land — realize their visions and build great organizations. I believe in Impact Architects and the people behind it so much, that I have actually joined them personally in their mission to help leaders gain focus, align together, and thrive by doing what they love! As a listener, you can sit down for a free consultation with Impact Architects by visiting ia.layoftheland.fm!-----Stay up to date by signing up for Lay of The Land's weekly newsletter — sign up here.Past guests include Justin Bibb (Mayor of Cleveland), Pat Conway (Great Lakes Brewing), Steve Potash (OverDrive), Umberto P. Fedeli (The Fedeli Group), Lila Mills (Signal Cleveland), Stewart Kohl (The Riverside Company), Mitch Kroll (Findaway — Acquired by Spotify), and over 200 other Cleveland Entrepreneurs.Connect with Jeffrey Stern on LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreypstern/Follow Jeffrey Stern on X @sternJefe — https://twitter.com/sternjefeFollow Lay of The Land on X @podlayofthelandhttps://www.jeffreys.page/

In This EpisodeIn today's episode of CleanTechies, we're joined by Anca Timofte, the CEO and Founder of Holocene, a direct air capture (DAC) company revolutionizing carbon removal through a continuous-loop liquid system. With over a decade of experience in carbon capture—including being one of the first employees at Climeworks—Anca offers unparalleled insight into the challenges and opportunities of building climate solutions.Anca walks us through:**How Holocene's low-temp carbon capture slashes energy costs with novel organic chemistry.**Solid vs. liquid DAC: Why Holocene's approach is a game-changer for scaling carbon removal.**Holocene's milestones: Securing Google as a customer and advancing major projects.**Startup lessons: Co-founder alignment, mission-driven hiring, and thriving in Knoxville.**Why DAC matters: Tackling legacy and ongoing emissions in a decarbonized world.---

00:00 The Evolution of Recruiting02:43 Transitioning to In-House Recruiting04:37 Navigating Corporate Culture and Challenges06:48 The Role of Candidate Experience08:43 Assessing Candidates: A vs. B Players10:00 Curiosity as a Key Trait in Recruiting12:13 The Birth of Honet and Interview Intelligence17:50 Taking the Leap: From Employee to Entrepreneur20:26 Navigating the Interview Intelligence Landscape25:24 The Role of AI in Recruitment30:50 Innovating the Hiring Process35:12 Life Transition: From Urban to Tropical40:13 Defining Success in Personal and Professional Life

“There are ups and downs through all of that. You have to be prepared for those days when things don't feel like they're moving ahead. And you have to bring the same type of passion, the same drive on either type of day.” —John Thorp   “You're never trying to get a yes out of anyone you're talking to when you are an early founder; you are trying to get a not, no… If it's getting bad feedback, fix it immediately and go right back. You have the ability to change someone's mind after they've made an opinion.” —Buzz Wiggins    Sparkling water has become a beloved beverage for its refreshing fizz and health-conscious appeal. Yet, the environmental impact of single-use containers and the lack of customization options have left many consumers seeking a more sustainable and personalized solution. How can we rethink the way we enjoy carbonated drinks? John Thorp and Buzz Wiggins, the co-founders of Aerflo, have dedicated themselves to revolutionizing the sparkling water experience. With their innovative portable carbonation system, they are empowering consumers to take control of their hydration while minimizing waste. Tune in as Justine Reichman sits down with John and Buzz to discuss their entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of building a sustainable product, the far-reaching benefits of their approach to sparkling water, the benefits of having the right co-founder, the lie we were all made to believe about recycling, and more! Meet John:  With over a decade of experience as an alternative investment professional, John Thorp brings a strong business acumen and strategic mindset to Aerflo. John is passionate about designing sustainable products that improve the lives of consumers while also reducing environmental impact. Under his leadership,  Aerflo has developed innovative carbonation technology and established a unique refill model to move beyond single-use waste. John is committed to building a company that creates positive change through thoughtful, consumer-centric design. LinkedIn   Meet Buzz:  As a skilled designer and problem-solver, Buzz Wiggins has been instrumental in the development of Aerflo's innovative product design and packaging. Leveraging his expertise in product design and optimization, Buzz has led the team in creating a seamless user experience while also ensuring the environmental sustainability of the Aerflo system. Buzz's creative approach and attention to detail have been crucial in bringing Aerflo's vision to life. LinkedIn   Connect with Aerflo: Website LinkedIn Instagram TikTok Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website LinkedIn Instagram Facebook YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:07 The Inspiration Behind Aerflo  16:33 Challenges and Prototyping  22:10 Business Building Lessons  31:50 Focus on Environmental Impact 34:30 The Lie We Were Made to Believe

Two of the three co-founders of Operant AI — CTO Dr. Priyanka Tembey and CMO Ashley Roof — joined me to talk about building the first runtime application protection platform and navigating the challenges of cloud-native security. The company announced a $10M Series A in September 2024 — In October, we discussed taking the leap into entrepreneurship, the lessons they learned through customer discovery and education, making early hires count, and the importance of early-stage team dynamics. RUNTIME: 48:14 EPISODE BREAKDOWN (2:28) “ I think it was within six months that we were able to have our first customer conversation.” (3:46) What can customers do with a runtime application protection platform? (9:38) “ What is interesting about our team is we don't come from prior security vendor companies.” (12:59) Ashley explains how her first “real job” at Google eventually led her to Operant AI. (15:51) “ I had many years of imposter syndrome to get over.” (17:57) Why working with design partner teams is key, particularly for stealth startups. (20:43) Priyanka discusses the company's early customer education efforts. (24:23) Ashley on why previous runtime application protection products hit “the trough of despair pretty fast.” (28:26) Turning design partners into paying customers was part of their seed-to-Series A transition. (31:04) Priyanka explains how Operant AI runs proof-of-concept programs for customers. (34:28) Why they decided to start up in stealth. (36:29) “ I honestly don't know how any consumer company could possibly start in stealth.” (38:35) “ We have the technical leadership in place now… to scale the product further.” (41:02) Inside their recruiting strategy and process. (44:35) What's changed since closing the Series A? LINKS Operant AI Dr. Priyanka Tembey co-founder, CTO Ashley Roof, co-founder, CMO Operant AI Secures $10M Series A to Protect the Modern Cloud Across APIs, Applications and AI SOC 2 compliance SUBSCRIBE LinkedIn Substack Instagram Thanks for listening! – Walter.

Did you know early health interventions can significantly increase survival rates for life-threatening diseases? Have you ever considered how predictive testing could change how we approach health management? What's your opinion on the role of AI in delivering personalized healthcare solutions?Have you ever wondered how machine learning and biomarkers change how we approach personalized healthcare?Do you think innovations like Molecular You can reshape the future of healthcare?Hey there, tech enthusiasts!

Send us a textIn this episode, Joey Pinz and Dave Nankervis dive into the world of Managed Service Providers (MSPs) and the unique offerings of Cork, a platform providing real-time cyber risk monitoring with financial warranty support. As Chief Revenue Officer, Dave explains Cork's innovative approach, bridging the gap between cybersecurity tools and insurance by offering immediate financial assistance during cyber incidents. This allows MSPs to respond quickly without waiting for insurance claims, making Cork a valuable partner in today's high-risk environment.