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Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Mark: Hustling with honesty.Mark Elias, an accomplished Hollywood actor turned filmmaker, is proving that the power of storytelling can transcend the screen to create meaningful connections. In today's episode, Mark shared insights about his latest independent film, We Could Be Heroes, which is raising capital via a regulated crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder.At its heart, We Could Be Heroes is a heartfelt story about chosen family, set against the backdrop of a quirky comedy-crime plot. “Family is what you make of it—it's not necessarily what you have or don't have,” Mark explained. The film follows a 14-year-old gamer girl and her neurotic, wannabe-detective neighbor as they team up to solve a mystery. While the premise is lighthearted and fun, Mark emphasized the deeper emotional message, adding, “At the end, it's heartfelt, it's sincere, it's honest.”Mark's journey from Hollywood actor to independent filmmaker is inspiring in its own right. Having appeared in popular shows like Justified, Teen Wolf, and 9-1-1: Lone Star, he has taken his years of experience on set and channeled them into creating films that resonate on a personal level. “It has to be a story or a message that really, really sticks with you,” Mark said, reflecting on the challenges of making independent films with modest budgets.Through crowdfunding, Mark aims to bring We Could Be Heroes to life while engaging directly with supporters. With a budget of $1.1 million, including equity raised through Wefunder, the film is positioned to maximize impact with a lean, smart production approach. “We're essentially saying we're making a three- to four-million-dollar movie for less than a million,” Mark explained, highlighting the importance of resourcefulness and creativity.Beyond its entertainment value, We Could Be Heroes is designed to connect with audiences emotionally, especially young gamers. “There are 3.2 billion gamers worldwide,” Mark noted, emphasizing the film's potential to draw a global audience.For those interested in supporting We Could Be Heroes, you can find the campaign on Wefunder at s4g.biz/heroes. Joining this project isn't just an investment in a film—it's a chance to help bring a meaningful story to life.tl;dr:Mark Elias shared insights into his journey from Hollywood actor to independent filmmaker.We Could Be Heroes tells a heartfelt story about chosen family, wrapped in a fun crime-comedy plot.The film is being funded through a Wefunder campaign, empowering supporters to help bring it to life.Mark described “hustling with honesty” as his superpower, enabling him to overcome challenges creatively.He encouraged collaboration and resourcefulness, inspiring others to embrace persistence in their pursuits.How to Develop Hustling with Honesty As a SuperpowerMark Elias described his superpower as “hustling with honesty,” a combination of persistence and authenticity that drives his filmmaking and career. “I'm always going to be transparent,” he said. “If you're on board, I love it—if not, I get it. I'm not going to stop until I make this thing.” Mark's relentless drive is grounded in his genuine desire to connect with others and tell impactful stories that resonate emotionally.One anecdote that exemplifies Mark's superpower is how he approaches challenges during film production. He shared that when a key location for a shoot fell through, he and his team quickly pivoted, identifying the essential qualities the location conveyed and finding a cost-effective alternative on the fly. “It's about never taking no for an answer,” Mark said. This resourcefulness, paired with his unwavering commitment to completing the project, showcases his ability to hustle through obstacles.Mark also shared tips for developing hustle as a personal strength:Stay Transparent: Be honest about your goals and challenges to build trust and authentic connections.Embrace the Process: Don't let initial setbacks deter you—use every “no” as a step toward “yes.”Empower Others: Collaborate with your team, encouraging their creativity and input to foster a shared vision.Stay Positive: Lead by example by maintaining an upbeat attitude, even during high-pressure situations.By following Mark's example and advice, you can make hustling with honesty a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileMark Elais (he/him):Filmmaker, DFM CreativeAbout DFM Creative: Independent film production company.Website: imdb.com/name/nm1731797/Other URL: wefunder.com/we.could.be.heroes.filmBiographical Information: Born in Houston and raised in Philadelphia, Mark is an avid soccer player. A long time member of the Beverly Hills playhouse, he has also studied with Lesly Kahn, Meisner LA, and is a member of the Second City conservatory. He speaks fluent Spanish from having lived in Spain, and is passionate about his Lebanese heritage. He is active in helping dogs find forever homes, and works to help others overcome anxiety and depression through his own experiences.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/mark-elias-0aab9b3Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/mark.elias1Instagram Handle: @markeliasSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, and Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive). Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdHour, October 15, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on “The Perfect Pitch: Creating an Irresistible Offering.” As a former investment banker and author, Devin will guide entrepreneurs through the process of crafting a regulated investment crowdfunding offering that aligns with investor expectations and captures attention. In this session, he'll share what makes a pitch compelling, how to structure terms that attract capital, and practical strategies for presenting your company's story in a way that resonates with investors. Whether you're launching your first community raise or refining a current campaign, this SuperCrowdHour will equip you with the tools to stand out and secure investor support. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how to transform your vision into a pitch investors can't resist.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperGreen Live, January 22–24, 2026, livestreaming globally. Organized by Green2Gold and The Super Crowd, Inc., this three-day event will spotlight the intersection of impact crowdfunding, sustainable innovation, and climate solutions. Featuring expert-led panels, interactive workshops, and live pitch sessions, SuperGreen Live brings together entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, and activists to explore how capital and climate action can work hand in hand. With global livestreaming, VIP networking opportunities, and exclusive content, this event will empower participants to turn bold ideas into real impact. Don't miss your chance to join tens of thousands of changemakers at the largest virtual sustainability event of the year.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.KingsCrowd Investment Crowdfunding Week: September 29 through October 2nd, featuring speakers, panels and live pitches (Devin Thorpe will be judging the Clean Energy pitch session on September 30 at 2ET/11PT). Free registration!Neighborhood Economics: Chicago takes place September 29–October 1, 2025, at Venue SIX10, bringing together changemakers, innovators, and community leaders reimagining wealth, ownership, and entrepreneurship to drive real community transformation.Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington, DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live, in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,500+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
This episode features an in-depth conversation with Scott Alldridge Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO), CISSP, AI MS Certified, ITIL Expert, Harvard Certified in Technology and Privacy, and CEO of IP Services. With 30+ years of experience in IT management and cybersecurity, Scott has become a global thought leader in modern security strategies. From starting in tech at 19 to building a successful cybersecurity services company. Scott shares powerful insights on the evolution of IT, the rise of AI-driven threats, and why businesses must embrace proactive, layered defenses. He also explains why adaptability, reinvention, and aligning technology with business goals are critical for resilience in today's fast-changing tech landscape.
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Gene: Relentless work ethic.There's a better way to build homes—faster, cheaper, and greener. Gene Eidelman, Cofounder of Azure Printed Homes, has proven this with a groundbreaking approach to construction. Using recycled plastics, his company is addressing the housing crisis while reducing environmental impact.Gene's journey started six years ago with a simple idea: to build homes that are more affordable and sustainable. After two and a half years of experimentation, he and his team developed a prototype during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The unit we developed actually is the one that's in the video now,” he shared in today's episode. “It's a backyard studio that can be built very quickly in our factory. It takes us 24 hours to print and five days to finish.”From these modest beginnings, Azure Printed Homes has expanded its scope. Today, the company produces a range of units, from luxury eco-resorts to affordable housing subdivisions and even villages for the unhoused. “This whole spectrum of products… [is] coming out from our factory,” Gene said. “It's just been an incredible journey.”What sets Azure apart isn't just the technology—it's the mission. By repurposing recycled plastic, the company builds homes 70% faster and 30% cheaper than traditional methods. With construction being one of the largest contributors to global waste, this innovation is a game-changer.Gene also shared exciting news: Azure was recently named a winner in Pepperdine University's Most Fundable Companies competition, an accolade awarded after a rigorous review of companies from across the country. This recognition highlights not just the company's innovation but also its potential to scale.Azure Printed Homes is currently raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder, offering everyday investors a chance to join their journey. “Crowdfunding democratizes the investment,” Gene explained. “People… understand good design, affordable housing, [and] sustainability.”Gene's story isn't just about building homes—it's about building solutions to some of society's most pressing challenges. By combining sustainability, innovation, and a clear social impact, he's creating a blueprint for a better future.tl;dr:Gene Eidelman cofounded Azure Printed Homes to build faster, cheaper, and sustainable homes using recycled plastics.Azure's innovative units range from eco-resorts to affordable housing for the unhoused, addressing critical needs.Recently named one of Pepperdine University's Most Fundable Companies, Azure's success continues to grow.Gene credits his relentless work ethic and crowdfunding campaigns for raising over $7.2 million.Azure's WeFunder campaign, closing October 15, is the last chance for non-accredited investors to join.How to Develop Relentless Work Ethic As a SuperpowerGene's superpower, as he explained in today's episode, is rooted in his relentless work ethic and determination. Reflecting on his childhood as a refugee from Ukraine, he shared lessons from his father: “You don't know whether you're smarter than the person next to you. But one thing you can do, you can outwork them.” This philosophy fueled his success, from arriving in the U.S. with no English to launching a groundbreaking company. Gene emphasized, “Just never give up… no matter how tough it is.”Illustrative Story:Gene shared how his perseverance shaped Azure Printed Homes' journey. During a challenging time for venture funding, the company turned to crowdfunding, despite Gene initially doubting its feasibility. Over six successful campaigns, Azure raised over $7.2 million, with a third coming from everyday investors. Gene's commitment to his vision kept him pushing forward, even when traditional funding sources dried up. This unwavering determination allowed Azure to scale and achieve recognition as one of Pepperdine University's Most Fundable Companies.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Don't Give Up: Pursue your goals relentlessly, even when faced with repeated setbacks.Seek Product-Market Fit: Validate your ideas by talking to potential customers early and often.Embrace Rejection: Treat every “no” as a step closer to a “yes.”Leverage Crowdfunding: Democratize access to funding by inviting community support for your vision.Work Harder: Outwork others to gain an edge in achieving your goals.By following Gene's example and advice, you can make a relentless work ethic a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileGene Eidelman (he/him):Cofounder, Azure Printed HomesAbout Azure Printed Homes: Azure Printed Homes is fundamentally changing the construction industry by leveraging 3D printing technology using recycled polymers and fiberglass to prefab tiny homes, ADUs, affordable homes and units for housing after natural disasters 70% faster and 30% less expensive than existing construction methods. Website: azureprintedhomes.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/azureprintedhomes Company Twitter Handle: @azureprinthomesOther URL: wefunder.com/azureBiographical Information: Gene Eidelman: Pioneering Sustainable and Affordable 3D Printing of HomesFrom developing multifamily housing to revolutionizing the construction industry with 3D-printed homes, Gene's journey in entrepreneurship is marked by innovation and impact. He co-founded his latest start-up, Azure Printed Homes in 2022. At Azure, Gene and his team are breaking new ground with a patented 3D printing process that constructs entire structures from recycled materials, fiberglass and other additives. This eco-friendly method is not only 70% faster but also 30% less expensive than traditional construction, revolutionizing how we think about building homes. Since May 2023, Azure Printed Homes has been delivering units ranging from workforce housing, affordable houses, homes for victims of natural disasters and units for outdoor hospitality industry, with a focus on sustainable, attainable housing for all. Azure current state-of-the art factory is in Los Angeles. They will be opening a factory in Colorado in 2025 and will be opening locations around the globe in 2026 and 2027. Azure is the winner of numerous awards and recognitions, including the 2024 Real Estate Tech Awards and 2025 Fast Company Global Innovator. Azure is currently raising its next round of funding at https://invest.azureprintedhomes.com. Gene is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the fields of innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, 3D Printing, construction and real estate. He delivered a TED talk on the future of housing, which has over 500,000 views and has been selected as one of the most impactful TED talk this century. His work is paving the way for a future where affordable and sustainable housing is going to be attainable by all.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/geneeidelmanPersonal Twitter Handle: @geidelman Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), Inner Space, and Bright Start. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch on September 29, 2025, hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, will feature Core Tax Deeds, Dopple, ProActive Realty Group, and Victory Hemp Foods pitching their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience. Viewers can vote for their favorite companies, win prizes, ask live questions, and join a private investor Zoom session to engage directly with founders and even invest during the show. Don't miss this free chance to discover and support purpose-driven startups—register here: https://thesupercrowd.com/25q3pitchImpact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.KingsCrowd Investment Crowdfunding Week: September 29 through October 2nd, featuring speakers, panels and live pitches (Devin Thorpe will be judging the Clean Energy pitch session on September 30 at 2ET/11PT). Free registration!Neighborhood Economics: Chicago takes place September 29–October 1, 2025, at Venue SIX10, bringing together changemakers, innovators, and community leaders reimagining wealth, ownership, and entrepreneurship to drive real community transformation.Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,500+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Lisa: Refusing to give up.Too many families face overwhelming challenges when trying to access life-saving benefits, often giving up before receiving the help they need. Lisa Marino, Founder and CEO of Dopple, has made it her mission to simplify the process.Lisa's personal experience navigating the welfare system while earning her MBA at Stanford inspired her to create Dopple. She explained, “We built for others what we did for ourselves to get our own family through.” Her platform connects families to an array of funding sources—government benefits, philanthropic programs, and contributions from friends and family—by streamlining the process into a simple, AI-driven solution.In today's episode, Lisa highlighted a staggering statistic: “40% of families eligible for SNAP are so overwhelmed by the application process that many just drop out.” She's determined to eliminate this friction, helping families secure critical funding for essentials like childcare, diapers, and even college savings.Lisa Marino will be pitching at the Superpowers for Good Live Pitch on September 29, 2025, at 5 PM ET! You'll not only see her live but also get the chance to ask her questions directly in the private investor session afterward. Register here.Dopple's approach begins with a 12-month budget, encouraging families to think comprehensively about their needs. The platform then leverages AI to match families with available resources and funding opportunities. Lisa shared, “We've taken this budget that maybe started at $25,000 and start whacking away at it… shifting $20,000 plus from being out of pocket to the family to the village that wants to support them.”Dopple's innovative model also addresses the philanthropic side. By fractionalizing gifting, Dopple enables friends, family, and organizations to contribute directly to a family's needs. Additionally, the company generates revenue through subscription-based kids' clothing and essential products like diapers and formula.Lisa's commitment to making a difference extends beyond her platform's services. Dopple is currently raising funds on Wefunder, inviting everyday individuals to invest in the company's vision. Lisa explained, “I believe in being egalitarian… If we're trying to help families fund the basics, we need to walk the walk.”By tackling the bureaucratic hurdles that prevent families from accessing critical support, Lisa and Dopple are making an extraordinary impact. Learn more about their mission and investment opportunity at thedopple.com/invest.tl;dr:Lisa Marino, CEO of Dopple, shares her journey navigating welfare systems during her MBA at Stanford.Dopple simplifies access to critical benefits, combining AI and a comprehensive family budgeting platform.The platform connects families to funding sources, reducing out-of-pocket expenses by leveraging their community.Lisa emphasizes Dopple's egalitarian approach, inviting individuals to invest via a Wefunder campaign.Her superpower, refusing to give up, drives her to tackle challenges with persistence and grit.How to Develop Refusing to Give Up As a SuperpowerLisa Marino's superpower is her unrelenting tenacity to overcome obstacles. She described it simply: “The hard part was sitting down and figuring it out.” Whether navigating complex welfare systems during her pregnancy or guiding her company through challenges, Lisa defines success as persistence. As she told her kids, “People who put on the big kid pants clean it up… and move forward.”Lisa's determination was tested during her time as CEO of Rocky. She inherited a company with a $400 million preference stack and declining revenue. Despite being advised against taking the role, she worked tirelessly to restructure the business, rebuild profitability, and grow through acquisitions. Years of difficult conversations and strategic moves eventually led to success—an exemplary display of perseverance.Tips for Developing This Superpower:Set Realistic Expectations: Focus on achieving small wins, even when faced with overwhelming challenges.Embrace the Grind: Accept that progress takes time and effort, and remain committed to the vision.Allow Yourself Breaks: Give yourself permission to recharge when needed, such as Lisa's “quarterly pity party.”Take Control: Address challenges proactively rather than waiting for them to escalate.By following Lisa's example and advice, you can make refusing to give up a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileLisa Marino (she/her):Founder and CEO, DoppleAbout Dopple: Two thirds of all families live paycheck to paycheck yet billions of federal and philanthropic dollars earmarked for these families go unused each year. The system is opaque, inefficient, and requires an advanced degree to navigate. I know this because at one point, before I became a successful operator, I was forced to navigate it for my family.Dopple is the platform to bring transparency and efficiency to the flow of funds in this market. We are the qualification engine and payment rails in the middle. Dopple launches in July in New Jersey, and I am looking for a famly foundation with an aligned vision to be a design and beta partner with us. Use of funds will be to cover needs such as diapers, childcare and tuition for mid to low income families in NJ.Website: thedopple.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/thedoppleOther URL: thedopple.com/investBiographical Information:- First person in my immigrant Mexican family to go to college, which I paid for myself. BS Wharton, MBA Stanford GSB, MA Latin American Studies, Stanford.- Reformed tech M&A banker and 3rd time entrepreneur who gets it done while a single mom.- Bootstrapped my last company and sold it to McClatchy in January 2024.- Designed with my daughter and then GC'd my home build during 2022-2023 in Big Sky, MT while simultaneously running a company. Every piece of trim in my house I stained myself.- At 54, there's still no friends on powder days.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lisa-marino-b520545Instagram Handle: @thedoppleSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Inner Space. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch on September 29, 2025, hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, will feature Core Tax Deeds, Dopple, ProActive Realty Group, and Victory Hemp Foods pitching their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience. Viewers can vote for their favorite companies, win prizes, ask live questions, and join a private investor Zoom session to engage directly with founders and even invest during the show. Don't miss this free chance to discover and support purpose-driven startups—register here: https://thesupercrowd.com/25q3pitchImpact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.KingsCrowd Investment Crowdfunding Week: September 29 through October 2nd, featuring speakers, panels and live pitches (Devin Thorpe will be judging the Clean Energy pitch session on September 30 at 2ET/11PT). Free registration!Neighborhood Economics: Chicago takes place September 29–October 1, 2025, at Venue SIX10, bringing together changemakers, innovators, and community leaders reimagining wealth, ownership, and entrepreneurship to drive real community transformation.Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,500+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
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This week, Nvidia invests in Intel, Intel alums garner investment, Ciara Pressler raises an important question about Oregon economic development and startup support, Tender Loving Empire launches a WeFunder, a new contact for Oregon Venture Fund, and more.OREGON STARTUP LINKSOregon needs an audit of orgs that help companies scale https://www.linkedin.com/posts/ciarapressler_oregon-needs-an-honest-audit-of-its-ability-activity-7374195213952741376-rfPzTender Loving Empire WeFunder https://wefunder.com/tenderlovingempire/Vooks https://www.youtube.com/@VooksStorybooksTechstars on startup community vs entrepreneurial ecosystems https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iYX8B0d-44oOvercommitted podcast https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhB9LGLUpCk&t=454sVibes DIY https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lbwqffzC-nYOREGON STARTUP STORIES00:00 Oregon startup intro00:20 Nvidia invests in Intel02:00 Intel alums starting startups06:00 Ciara Pressler asks for receipts11:30 Tender Loving Empire launches WeFunder14:03 Deepthi Madhava is the new OVF contact16:30 Vooks reaches 1M subscribers19:45 Good YouTube content I found this week28:50 Secrets…
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Gregory: Vulnerability.Filmmaker Gregory Falatek is channeling his creative energy into a captivating psychological thriller, Elmwood Park, set in his hometown of Norristown, Pennsylvania. With this project, Gregory is not only telling an intriguing story but also building a bridge between art and community through crowdfunding on WeFunder, where anyone can invest in the film for as little as $100.The film, a 90s-era psychological thriller, follows three high school seniors in a post-industrial East Coast town as they navigate a series of events after witnessing a murder. Gregory explained that the story draws on his own experiences growing up in Norristown, as well as his observations of the town's transformation. “This story came to me based on a lot of kind of past experiences. And I just took that and kind of heightened it into fiction,” Gregory shared.After spending a decade in Los Angeles honing his skills in acting and directing—two of his films even premiered at Cannes—Gregory returned to his roots in Pennsylvania. Inspired by the town's history and architecture, he envisioned Elmwood Park as more than just a thrilling night at the movies. “It's not just an exciting kind of thriller of a film… but it also could serve over time as like an architectural time capsule of this place,” he said.Crowdfunding plays a pivotal role in turning this vision into reality. Gregory saw platforms like WeFunder as a way to democratize investing in film. “What I liked about it is… you don't just get a T-shirt. You get actual ownership in the film and can collect on it for the rest of your life,” he explained. By inviting the community to invest, he hopes to inspire others to pursue creative endeavors, just as he was inspired by local role models like Kate Flannery, a fellow Norristown native and actor known for The Office.Gregory's approach is refreshingly inclusive. He shared, “Even if it makes one kid around here think that they can make a film… I think that's super important.” By leveraging crowdfunding to connect with his community, Gregory is creating an opportunity for people to feel both figuratively and literally invested in the film.Filmmaking is no small feat, but Gregory's blend of creativity, vulnerability, and community-focused strategy is proof that art can thrive outside traditional Hollywood systems. Visit to learn more about this project and how you can be part of it.tl;dr:Gregory Falatek shares how Elmwood Park, a psychological thriller, draws on his hometown's history.Crowdfunding on WeFunder enables the public to invest in Elmwood Park for as little as $100.Gregory highlights how returning to Norristown inspired him to preserve local architecture and culture.Vulnerability, Gregory's superpower, fuels his creativity and helps him connect with others authentically.Gregory invites everyone to join the project, emphasizing community impact and the democratization of film.How to Develop Vulnerability As a SuperpowerGregory's superpower is his ability to embrace vulnerability, a skill he credits for enhancing his creativity and human connection. He explained, “I think my creativity comes from being open and vulnerable, actually, in my art.” Gregory shared that growing up, he struggled with being misunderstood, which made him hesitant to open up. Over time, he learned that vulnerability allows for deeper connections, both in life and on screen. “You need this deep sense of vulnerability to make [characters] human… even if you're being funny about it,” he said.Gregory recalled his first feature film as a pivotal moment where he embraced vulnerability. Playing a “burnout type” character, he had to let go of self-consciousness to bring authenticity to the role. Surrounded by cameras and crew, he stayed true to his character, ensuring the performance resonated with humanity and heart. His openness not only elevated his acting but also helped him connect with the people around him, demonstrating the power of vulnerability in creating impactful art.Actionable Tips for Developing Vulnerability:Open Up in Everyday Conversations: Practice vulnerability by being honest and open in your daily interactions with others.Avoid Judging Yourself or Others: Approach creative work and relationships without judgment, allowing for genuine connections.Learn from Observation: Pay attention to how others express vulnerability, and apply those insights to your own life.Embrace Discomfort: Accept that being vulnerable may feel awkward at first, but it leads to growth and connection.By following Gregory's example and advice, you can make vulnerability a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileGregory Falatek (he/him):CEO/Founder (Writer/Director), Elmwood Park Film LLCAbout Elmwood Park Film LLC: Elmwood Park' is a psychological thriller, written and directed by Gregory Falatek, that is disrupting Hollywood in Norristown, Pennsylvania. The feature film stars Kate Flannery (The Office), Bai Ling (The Crow), Keith Poulson (The Sweet East), Conner Marx (New Amsterdam), H. Foley (Tires), and more. 'Elmwood Park' will be shot in February 2026 in Norristown, Pennsylvania and we will utilize the 25% Pennsylvania Film Tax Credit.Website: wefunder.com/elmwoodparkCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/people/Elmwood-Park-A-Film-by-Gregory-Falatek/61562525752416/Instagram Handle: @elmwoodparkfilmBiographical Information: Gregory Falatek is an award-winning writer, director, and actor, born and based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Most recently, Gregory acted in Christmas Eve in Miller's Point, starring Michael Cera, Ben Shenkman, Maria Dizzia, Elsie Fisher, Gregg Turkington, Francesca Scorcese, Sawyer Spielberg, and Caveh Zahedi, as well Eephus, starring Frederick Wiseman, Keith W. Richards, and Wayne Diamond, both of which debuted at Cannes Film Festival 2024 in the Director's Fortnight. Christmas Eve in Miller's Point was released theatrically in November 2024 by IFC Films and Eephus will be released theatrically in March 2025 by Music Box Films.In addition to acting, Gregory is an award-winning writer and director, who recently gained notoriety for his screenplay, Elmwood Park, a neorealist, psychological thriller that will feature an incredible ensemble cast and has already many screenwriting awards on the festival circuit.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/gregory-falatekPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/gregoryjfalatekPersonal Twitter Handle: @falatekInstagram Handle: @falatekSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), Inner Space, and BrightStart. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on September 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, September 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "What's the Difference Between Gambling and Investing? Diversification." When it comes to money, too many people confuse speculation with true investing. In this session, Devin will explore what separates gambling from responsible investment practices—and why diversification is one of the most important tools for reducing risk and improving outcomes. Drawing on real-world examples and practical strategies, he'll help you understand how to evaluate opportunities, spread risk wisely, and think long-term about your portfolio. Whether you're new to investing, considering your first community round, or looking to refine your approach as a seasoned investor, this SuperCrowdHour will give you actionable insights to strengthen your decision-making. Don't miss this chance to sharpen your perspective and invest with greater confidence.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 29, 2025. Hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, this special event gives purpose-driven founders the chance to pitch their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience of investors and supporters. Selected founders will gain exposure to investors, national visibility across social and streaming platforms, and exclusive prizes from judges and sponsors—all at no cost to apply or pitch. Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
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About Jason Cavness Jason Cavness is a tattooed INFJ, retired U.S. Army officer (25 years of service), and a relentless builder of businesses and communities. He's the CEO/Founder of CavnessHR, where he helps U.S. small businesses (49 or fewer employees) save time and money by automating HR through a tech platform backed by a dedicated HR Business Partner. Jason also hosts The Jason Cavness Experience, a top 2.5% global podcast and top 100 tech podcast, where he dives deep with entrepreneurs and other interesting people shaping the future. His motto: “Be Great Every Day.” Whether leading soldiers, advising startups, or building HR tech, Jason is focused on one thing: adding value and helping others solve real-world problems. He holds a Master's in Human Relations from the University of Oklahoma. About This Episode This special Wefunder livestream edition of The Jason Cavness Experience was hosted by Sierra Clouse and designed to inform the community about the CavnessHR crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder. In this conversation, Sierra flips the script and interviews Jason about his personal and professional journey from college leadership and the challenges of Army officer candidate school to leading successful military units and transitioning into entrepreneurship. The discussion also explores: Why HR is a critical challenge for small businesses The importance of balancing AI tools with the human element Client success stories (including “Anna,” a small business owner drowning in HR chaos) How CavnessHR is building for scale and community impact The vision for bridging Vietnam and U.S. startup ecosystems The risks and rewards of startup fundraising, and why investor trust matters Reflections on the Ho Chi Minh City launch event and what's next for CavnessHR
Josh Cohn, Chief Commercial Officer of EndoSound, joins Test. Optimize. Scale. to share how his team is changing access to GI procedures through innovative medical technology and equity crowdfunding. With 17 years of experience in the medical device industry, Josh has built a track record of leading teams ranked #1 in revenue, percent to plan, and conversion dollars year after year. In this episode, Josh explains why EndoSound is gaining national attention from investors, physicians, and surgical centers. He breaks down how their technology lowers costs for patients, expands access to care in underserved communities, and opens new opportunities for doctors and facilities. Josh also talks about the company's Reg CF campaign on Wefunder, how they attracted hundreds of investors, and why he believes crowdfunding is essential to the future of MedTech. Whether you're a founder, investor, or curious about medical device innovation, you'll hear real insights into testing, optimizing, and scaling a healthcare startup.
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Chad: GritHemp is more than a crop—it's a solution. In today's episode, Chad Rosen, Founder and CEO of Victory Hemp Foods, shared how his company is revolutionizing agriculture and nutrition while supporting farmers and sustainable practices.Chad started Victory Hemp Foods in 2014, inspired by the legalization of industrial hemp and its potential to solve critical problems in the food industry. “Farmers needed a manufacturer who could bring their products to market,” Chad explained. His company processes hemp seeds to create nutrient-dense ingredients like protein powder and oil that are used by global food brands in everything from protein bars to beverages.The secret to Victory Hemp Foods' success lies in its patented process. “We separate the oil and protein into two fractions,” Chad said. This innovation produces a clean, lightly flavored protein powder rich in essential amino acids and a heart-healthy oil with the ideal omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. By valorizing all parts of the hemp seed, including turning the hulls into sweeteners, Victory Hemp Foods creates a sustainable, profitable model that benefits farmers and consumers alike.Hemp's environmental benefits are equally compelling. It promotes biodiversity, breaks pest and weed cycles, and can grow with less water compared to many other crops. Chad emphasized its potential: “Hemp can be a 20-million-acre crop,” he said, noting its ability to transform both farming and food production.Victory Hemp Foods is scaling its operations to meet growing demand. The company is currently raising capital through a regulated crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder, allowing community members to invest in its mission. “This is a vote of confidence,” Chad said, encouraging supporters to back regenerative agriculture and healthy food systems.Hemp is more than a niche ingredient; it's a key to a healthier, more sustainable future. Victory Hemp Foods is leading the way—and you can be part of it.tl;dr:Chad Rosen shared how Victory Hemp Foods creates sustainable, nutrient-dense products from North American hemp.The company's patented process transforms hemp seeds into protein powder, oil, and sweeteners.Hemp farming supports biodiversity, reduces environmental impact, and offers economic opportunities for farmers.Victory Hemp Foods is raising capital on WeFunder, inviting community investment in its mission.Chad emphasized his superpower, grit, as the key to overcoming challenges and driving innovation.How to Develop Grit As a SuperpowerChad identified his superpower as grit—the ability to persevere through challenges without giving up. “The ability to look at a letdown and turn it around…keeps you grinding,” he explained. Over more than a decade, Chad's persistence has allowed him to overcome obstacles, adapt to setbacks, and lead Victory Hemp Foods to success. He emphasized that grit is essential for entrepreneurs navigating uncertain paths.Illustrative Story:Three years ago, Chad faced a major setback when a potential investor backed out after six months of due diligence, citing concerns about the company's technology. This left Victory Hemp Foods without funding or a clear path forward. Instead of giving up, Chad and his team reimagined their process, developing a more efficient and profitable solution. The unexpected challenge forced them to create a breakthrough that became the foundation of their current success.Tips for Developing Grit:View setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow.Believe that every disappointment is a blessing in disguise.Stay focused on solving problems instead of dwelling on challenges.Surround yourself with a team of talented, supportive individuals.By following Chad's example and advice, you can make grit a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileChad Rosen (he/him):Founder & CEO, Victory Hemp FoodsAbout Victory Hemp Foods: At Victory Hemp Foods, we cold press North Americas freshest hemp hearts into nutritionally dense protein and oil. Our ingredients are in use by the worlds top food brands that are making anything from nutrition bars to protein rich beverages for their customers who read the ingredient label, the nutritional panel, and ask questions about how ingredients are sourced.Website: victoryhempfoods.comInstagram Handle: @victoryhempfoodsOther URL: wefunder.com/victory.hemp.foods/joinBiographical Information: Since 2014, Chad has led the growth of Victory Hemp Foods as founder and CEO. Prior to founding Victory Hemp, Chad was VP of Vetrazzo recycled glass surfaces, an eventual division of Polycor North America. He was the recent past president of the Kentucky Hemp Industries Association (KYHIA) and board member of the Organic Association of Kentucky (OAK). He received his bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Marquette University and completed additional business coursework at the University of New Mexico's Anderson College of Business as well as the University of New Castle (Australia). A graduate of the Village Capital Agricultural Accelerator his network in the food system is far reaching at high levels in the private and public sectors. The White House invited Chad to represent Kentucky and Victory Hemp Foods at the Global Entrepreneurship Summit in Palo Alto, where he met with POTUS's Entrepreneurial Ambassadors and 700 other entrepreneurs from 170 countries to work on solving for some of the world most pressing issues here at home and abroad, including food security. He's dedicated to bringing hemp into the rural economy where sustainable economic development is a priority.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/chadwrosenSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), Flower Turbines, and InnerSpace. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on September 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, September 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "What's the Difference Between Gambling and Investing? Diversification." When it comes to money, too many people confuse speculation with true investing. In this session, Devin will explore what separates gambling from responsible investment practices—and why diversification is one of the most important tools for reducing risk and improving outcomes. Drawing on real-world examples and practical strategies, he'll help you understand how to evaluate opportunities, spread risk wisely, and think long-term about your portfolio. Whether you're new to investing, considering your first community round, or looking to refine your approach as a seasoned investor, this SuperCrowdHour will give you actionable insights to strengthen your decision-making. Don't miss this chance to sharpen your perspective and invest with greater confidence.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 29, 2025. Hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, this special event gives purpose-driven founders the chance to pitch their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience of investors and supporters. Selected founders will gain exposure to investors, national visibility across social and streaming platforms, and exclusive prizes from judges and sponsors—all at no cost to apply or pitch. Applications close September 8, 2025. Founders: Apply today to take the stage where capital meets impact!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.NEIGHBR Live Webinar, in partnership with FundingHope, will share NEIGHBR's story with a wider audience — September 3 at 11 AM EST. Reserve your spot today!Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
In this episode of the Directed IRA Podcast, attorney and CEO Mat Sorensen sits down with Ahmed Ahmed, Head of Funds at WeFunder, to discuss how investors can use a self-directed IRA to invest in startups and venture capital—an asset class once limited to Silicon Valley insiders and institutional funds.The conversation explores how WeFunder democratizes early-stage investing through Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF) and Regulation D (Reg D) offerings, giving both accredited and non-accredited investors access to vetted startup deals, diversified venture funds, and even pre-IPO companies.Mat and Ahmed explain:How to invest in startups using your self-directed IRA or solo 401(k)The difference between Reg CF and Reg D offerings on WeFunderWhat the Orange Funds are and how they track Y Combinator companiesReal examples of early-stage companies that scaled (e.g. Eight Sleep, Replit)Why diversification is critical in venture investingHow to evaluate startup founders and what signals matter mostWhat to expect in terms of risk, timelines, and exit strategiesThis episode is essential listening for self-directed investors interested in private markets and early-stage innovation—and how to access it within a tax-advantaged retirement account structure.Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction to WeFunder and Startup Investing 01:30 – What Is Reg CF and Who Can Invest 03:16 – Inside the Orange Funds and Y Combinator Strategy 07:40 – Risk, Return, and Realities of Startup Investing 11:50 – Using a Fund Model to Diversify Your Startup Portfolio 19:22 – How to Evaluate Founders, Traction, and Deal Flow 24:27 – Getting Started with Startup Investing Through Your IRAWeFunder Homepage: https://wefunder.com/Directed IRA Homepage: https://directedira.com/ Directed IRA Explore (Linktree): https://linktr.ee/SelfDirectedIRA Book a Call: https://directedira.com/appointment/ Other:Mat Sorensen: https://matsorensen.com & https://linktr.ee/MatSorensen KKOS: https://kkoslawyers.comMain Street Business https://mainstreetbusiness.com
On this week's episode we will be talking to the CEO of Mark's Snacks, Mark Samuel. Mark is a serial entrepreneur with 20+ years of leading companies through various stages of growth. Mark has amassed nearly 70k follower on LinkedIn and built a loyal community through that platform. Mark's Snacks is a BFY kettle chip baked in avocado oil and sea salt. They have recently launched in the last few weeks and raised over $190k on WeFunder. We are PUMPED to talk to this legend!
Newt talks with Erik Bork, the Emmy award-winning writer and director of the new film "The Elephant in the Room." The film is a romantic comedy that explores the challenges of political polarization through the story of a progressive woman who discovers her seemingly perfect partner voted for President Trump. Bork shares insights into his career, starting with his break from Tom Hanks, and discusses the creative process behind the film, including the challenges of portraying political differences authentically. He also delves into the complexities of independent filmmaking, from fundraising through platforms like Wefunder, to navigating distribution in a crowded media landscape. Bork emphasizes the importance of marketing and word-of-mouth in promoting independent films and highlights the potential for community screenings to foster discussion on political polarization. The film is available on major streaming platforms, and interested groups can host screenings to engage in dialogue about the film's themes. https://elephantintheroomfilm.comSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Dr. Stephen: Courage and tenacityIn today's world, access to affordable, effective healthcare remains a persistent challenge. Dr. Stephen Steinberg, Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of EndoSound, is tackling this problem head-on with an innovative approach to endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) technology. By dramatically lowering costs, EndoSound is helping more hospitals and surgical centers provide this life-saving diagnostic and therapeutic modality to millions of patients.Endoscopic ultrasound has been a medical mainstay for over 25 years, offering real-time imaging and diagnostic capabilities for conditions like pancreatic cancer. However, the prohibitive cost of traditional EUS systems—up to half a million dollars—has kept the technology out of reach for many facilities. Stephen and his team at EndoSound have developed a system that reduces these costs by 90%, making it accessible to smaller hospitals, surgical centers, and even under-resourced regions globally.“What became apparent was that my backlog of cases and waiting times were getting longer and longer,” Stephen explained, citing the lack of local access to EUS technology. “We adapt the scopes that [medical centers] already have with ultrasound technology, providing a much more cost-effective, much more accessible opportunity.”EndoSound's innovation doesn't just lower costs. By enabling earlier diagnoses of conditions like pancreatic cancer, which currently has a five-year survival rate of just 12%, the technology has the potential to save thousands of lives. Stephen described the transformative impact: “Our technology has the ability to impact that curve…to make it so that patients' tumors are caught earlier.”Beyond patient care, the technology offers financial benefits to facilities. Surgical centers that adopt EndoSound's system can generate revenue from procedures while improving patient outcomes. With millions of diagnostic procedures performed annually, the market opportunity for EndoSound's affordable solution is substantial.For those interested in supporting this groundbreaking work, EndoSound is currently raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder. This presents a chance for investors to back a company that is not only disrupting the healthcare industry but also saving lives.Stephen's vision is clear: to democratize access to critical diagnostic tools and improve outcomes for patients worldwide. His work exemplifies the spirit of innovation and purpose that drives meaningful progress in healthcare.tl;dr:Dr. Stephen Steinberg discusses EndoSound's affordable endoscopic ultrasound technology that improves healthcare access and outcomes.By reducing costs by 90%, EndoSound enables earlier diagnoses, especially for conditions like pancreatic cancer.Stephen highlights the global potential of EndoSound to bring life-saving care to under-resourced regions.His superpower, courage and tenacity, stems from personal experiences navigating his children's life-threatening illnesses.EndoSound is raising capital via crowdfunding, empowering investors to support its transformative healthcare mission.How to Develop Courage and Tenacity As a SuperpowerStephen's superpower is a combination of courage and tenacity. He explains that courage isn't about choosing to be heroic but rather about responding to terrifying circumstances. Recalling his experience as a young parent facing life-threatening heart defects in his children, Stephen shared, “You discover courage not because you choose to but because circumstances require you to push through.” From these challenges, he also developed tenacity—the determination to persist even when exhausted or overwhelmed. These qualities have shaped his approach to both medicine and entrepreneurship.One story that demonstrates Stephen's superpower is his family's journey with his two children, both born with life-threatening heart defects. Despite the overwhelming fear and challenges, he and his wife relied on their courage and tenacity to support their children through cutting-edge medical care. Both children are now thriving adults, with families of their own. Stephen's personal experiences instilled in him a deep commitment to improving access to life-saving technologies like EndoSound.Stephen's advice for developing courage and tenacity includes:Define Your Mission: Identify a purpose that inspires you to push through obstacles.Stay Focused on the Goal: Visualize your desired outcome to maintain determination.Draw Strength from Others: Lean on your support network during difficult times.Take It Step by Step: Break overwhelming challenges into smaller, manageable tasks.By following Stephen's example and advice, you can make courage and tenacity a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDr. Stephen Steinberg (he/him):Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer, EndoSound, IncAbout EndoSound: EndoSound® has developed a breakthrough approach to delivering high-quality gastrointestinal diagnostics—without the prohibitive cost that has kept this technology out of reach for most patients. The EndoSound Vision System™ (EVS™) merges video-guided endoscopy and ultrasound into a single, real-time diagnostic view, enabling more accurate, minimally invasive exams that can be performed in outpatient and ambulatory settings.Its portable, compact design makes it equally at home in hospitals, Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs), and rural or resource-limited care environments—dramatically expanding where advanced GI imaging can be performed. The EVS is FDA cleared and retrofits to the standard endoscopes already in use worldwide, eliminating the need for proprietary scopes. This integration creates an exceptionally affordable path for providers to offer cutting-edge diagnostics where they're needed most, including in under-resourced healthcare systems across the globe.Website: endosound.comX/Twitter Handle: @EndoSoundEVSOther URL: wefunder.com/endosoundBiographical Information: Dr. Steinberg is the co-inventor of a medical device with the potential to change the trajectory of GI care globally. A graduate of Cornell University and Johns Hopkins Medical School, Dr. Steinberg has devoted a 40-year career to advancing diagnostic and therapeutic gastrointestinal endoscopy.Among these procedures, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS) stands out as one of the most transformative—offering unparalleled insight into pancreatic, biliary, and submucosal disease. As co-inventor of the patented technologies behind EndoSound, he has married deep clinical expertise with engineering innovation to dismantle the access barriers that have kept EUS confined to a select few institutions. His vision extends far beyond U.S. borders—toward making this life-saving diagnostic accessible in regions where the absence of early detection leads to preventable deaths.Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/endosoundSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Flower Turbines. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on September 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, September 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "What's the Difference Between Gambling and Investing? Diversification." When it comes to money, too many people confuse speculation with true investing. In this session, Devin will explore what separates gambling from responsible investment practices—and why diversification is one of the most important tools for reducing risk and improving outcomes. Drawing on real-world examples and practical strategies, he'll help you understand how to evaluate opportunities, spread risk wisely, and think long-term about your portfolio. Whether you're new to investing, considering your first community round, or looking to refine your approach as a seasoned investor, this SuperCrowdHour will give you actionable insights to strengthen your decision-making. Don't miss this chance to sharpen your perspective and invest with greater confidence.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.NEIGHBR Live Webinar, in partnership with FundingHope, will share NEIGHBR's story with a wider audience — September 3 at 11 AM EST. Reserve your spot today!Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Dr. Jenn: Connecting ideas.Captain Hugo: Pragmatic observation.Restoring ocean ecosystems while offering unforgettable polar expeditions may sound ambitious, but that's the mission of Positive Polar LLC, led by Dr. Jenn Bonilla and Captain Hugo Hinrichsen. The company is pioneering a new approach to ocean restoration by integrating cutting-edge science into its expedition cruises.Jenn explained, “Our passengers will not only enjoy incredible experiences in pristine polar environments but also witness and even participate in real-time scientific experiments aimed at restoring the ocean's natural balance.” Positive Polar's vision includes biomimicking the ecological role of whales, whose populations have been drastically reduced over the past century. This innovative approach seeks to restore biodiversity and sequester carbon naturally, addressing both environmental and climate challenges.The concept is as unique as it is compelling. While many expedition cruises offer educational activities, Positive Polar makes science central to the experience. Jenn highlighted this distinction, saying, “What we're doing is actually advancing a very specific set of validated—or to be validated—science about ocean restoration.” Guests aboard Positive Polar's ship will witness experiments in ocean restoration, such as using whale biomimicry to grow phytoplankton, which supports marine life and captures carbon.Captain Hugo emphasized the environmental impact of their operations, explaining that the company goes beyond sustainability. “As our ship sails, we'll generate life in our wake by spreading nutrients that restore ocean biodiversity and sequester carbon,” he said. Positive Polar also plans to use carbon-neutral fuels like hydrogen-derived alternatives to minimize emissions.The company is currently raising capital via a regulated crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder. Investors not only gain the opportunity to support ocean restoration but also receive benefits like discounted cruise experiences. As Hugo put it, “Finally, our investors will feel the ship and spread our message. It's a perfect fit.”Positive Polar's model combines a sustainable business approach with science-driven innovation to create both environmental impact and financial returns. With just a small share of the growing expedition cruise market, Positive Polar aims to fund research, restore oceans, and deliver exceptional experiences.By supporting Positive Polar, investors and passengers alike can play a vital role in restoring the oceans to their pre-industrial health.tl;dr:Positive Polar combines expedition cruises with science to restore ocean biodiversity and combat climate change.Jenn and Hugo discussed their innovative whale biomimicry reactor, which transforms waste into ocean-restoring nutrients.The company's use of carbon-neutral fuels and nutrient-spreading ensures minimal environmental impact while sailing.Positive Polar is raising funds through WeFunder, offering both environmental and financial returns for investors.Jenn and Hugo's superpowers—connecting ideas and pragmatic observation—drive the company's mission and innovation.How to Develop Connecting Ideas and Pragmatic Observation As a SuperpowerJenn described her superpower as the ability to connect seemingly unrelated ideas, technologies, and disciplines. She explained, “There should be a way for us to treat waste so it looks like whale poop before it's dumped in the ocean. If it did, it would grow phytoplankton.” This innovative thinking drives Positive Polar's whale biomimicry reactor, a project that transforms waste into ocean-restoring nutrients.Hugo's superpower, on the other hand, is pragmatic observation. He shared how his experiences in Patagonia and Antarctica shaped his perspective. “I saw how the lagoons no longer froze and realized I had to do something,” he said. Hugo's sharp observations led to the creation of Positive Polar, combining tourism with ocean-saving science.Illustrative Story:Jenn's ability to connect ideas is exemplified by her vision for the whale biomimicry reactor. Drawing on her biotech background, she recognized that shipboard waste could be treated to mimic the ecological role of whale feces. This innovation transforms waste into nutrients that grow phytoplankton, restoring marine ecosystems and sequestering carbon.Hugo's story of growing up in Patagonia illustrates his pragmatic observation. When he returned to show his children the winters of his childhood, he found the lagoons no longer froze. This marked a turning point for him, inspiring his mission to restore the oceans through science-backed tourism.Tips for Developing the Superpowers:For Connecting Ideas (Jenn's Superpower):Explore intersections between unrelated fields or disciplines.Leverage your expertise to creatively solve problems in new domains.Collaborate with experts from diverse backgrounds to gain fresh perspectives.For Pragmatic Observation (Hugo's Superpower):Pay close attention to changes in your environment and their implications.Use experiences to identify practical solutions to larger problems.Focus on actionable insights rather than abstract concerns.By following Jenn's example of connecting ideas and Hugo's pragmatic approach to observation, you can develop these skills. With practice and effort, you could turn these into superpowers that enable you to drive meaningful change and do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileJenn Bonilla (she/her):President, Positive Polar LLCAbout Positive Polar LLC: Positive Polar is the first expedition cruise company dedicated to funding groundbreaking research and solutions to heal our environment. Their mission is a beacon of hope: to restore ocean wildlife and ecosystems by harnessing nature's own genius, like the “whale pump,” while igniting a global wave of ambassadorship for environmental restoration.Website: positivepolar.comX/Twitter Handle: @positivepolarxCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/positivepolarexBiographical Information: Jenn is one of the visionary founders of Positive Polar, the first science expedition cruise company dedicated to funding groundbreaking research and solutions to heal our environment.Their mission is a beacon of hope: to restore ocean wildlife and ecosystems by harnessing nature's own genius, like the “whale pump,” while igniting a global wave of ambassadorship for environmental restoration.Dr. Jenn is a research Psychologist and experienced biotechnology professional who has led the investment, development and commercialization of multiple biotechnology products. She is also a passionate expedition cruiser and whale lover who is committed to applying her extensive expertise to making a positive difference for ocean wildlife and the environment.She lives currently in Tampa and as President of Positive Polar expects to spend most of her time aboard the Polar Angel once sailing, leading the scientific programming in consultation with world-leading experts and building advocacy for whales, oceans, and environmental restoration.Hugo Hinrichsen (he/him):CEO, Positive Polar LLCAbout Positive Polar LLC: Positive Polar is the first expedition cruise company dedicated to funding groundbreaking research and solutions to heal our environment. Their mission is a beacon of hope: to restore ocean wildlife and ecosystems by harnessing nature's own genius, like the “whale pump,” while igniting a global wave of ambassadorship for environmental restoration.Website: positivepolar.comX/Twitter Handle: @positivepolarxCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/positivepolarexOther URL: wefunder.com/positivepolarBiographical Information: Captain Hugo Hinrichsen is a visionary leader and Climate Restoration Ambassador to the cruise industry, dedicated to healing our oceans and restoring balance to the planet. As one of the founders of Positive Polar, the world's first science expedition cruise company focused on funding groundbreaking environmental research, Hugo is pioneering a mission to restore marine wildlife and ecosystems by working with nature's own solutions, such as the “whale pump.” His efforts are not only scientific but deeply personal. Descended from Danish whalers, Hugo is determined to transform that legacy into one of redemption, championing whales as keystone species for planetary health. Having lived in Patagonia, he has witnessed firsthand the devastating changes in climate—disappearing ice, snow replaced by rain, and the loss of the winters he once cherished with his children—fueling his drive to spark a global wave of environmental stewardship.With a distinguished career as a Reserve Frigate Captain, naval engineer, polar helicopter pilot, and expedition leader, Hugo has commanded naval and air-sea operations, led rescue missions, and supported scientists in some of the harshest environments on Earth. Beyond his extensive maritime and aviation expertise, he holds a Master's degree in Strategic Development and Business Administration, embodying both leadership and entrepreneurial vision. Splitting his time between Concón, Chile, where he raises his five children, and the United States, where he is building Positive Polar, Hugo is preparing to guide the company into its next chapter. As CEO, he will spend much of his time at sea, directing polar expeditions that combine exploration, science, and advocacy—rallying global awareness for whale restoration, healthy oceans, and a brighter environmental future.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/hugo-hinrichsenInstagram Handle: @positivepolarxSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Dopple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you'll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don't miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.NEIGHBR Live Webinar, in partnership with FundingHope, will share NEIGHBR's story with a wider audience — September 3 at 11 AM EST. Reserve your spot today!Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Robert Masse is the founder of Astrolabe Analytics, a battery software startup improving safety and extending the lifespan of battery-powered fleets. Backed by grants and contracts from the U.S. Air Force and National Science Foundation, Astrolabe's work bridges cutting-edge research with real-world applications. Robert launched Astrolabe while earning his PhD in Materials Science at the University of Washington. With over 15 years of experience researching materials for batteries and catalysts at UW, Pacific Northwest National Lab, and University of Wisconsin–Madison, Robert brings rare technical depth to the fast-evolving battery industry.
Crowdfunding: Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and Ecommerce with CrowdCrux | Crowdfunding Demystified
In this episode of Crowdfunding Demystified, you'll hear from Ryan Duitch, founder and CEO of Arro Finance, a groundbreaking fintech startup that's raised over $900K on WeFunder. Arro helps underserved and first-time borrowers build credit using a behavior-based system powered by AI, gamification, and real financial education. Ryan shares: Why did he leave the corporate world to build something more meaningful How he validated his idea through hundreds of interviews Tips for launching a WeFunder campaign (including why he kept it stealth at first) Why resilience and loving the problem are essential traits for any founder Whether you're building in fintech, planning a WeFunder campaign, or just looking for honest startup advice, you'll take away real, actionable insights from this episode. Resources and Tools Mentioned: Book a coaching call Subscribe for Weekly Crowdfunding Tips Fulfillrite: Kickstarter and crowdfunding reward fulfillment services. They come highly recommended! Download their free shipping and fulfillment checklist Free Equity Crowdfunding Course Equity Crowdfunding Explained Arro Finance on Wefunder Arro Finance Website
In this episode, Chris speaks with Alex Wright-Gladstein, founder & CEO of Sphere, the company behind the Sphere 500 Climate Fund—a low-fee, index-like mutual fund for 401(k)s that excludes fossil fuel companies and is now available on Fidelity and Schwab. Alex explains how her team navigated years of audits, platform approvals, and AUM thresholds to unlock real adoption within the retirement ecosystem—and why crossing $100M AUM is the tipping point that could lead to billions in inflows from the largest corporate 401(k)s.Highlights include...Why most 401(k)s don't offer real climate-friendly fundsHow Sphere built a low-fee (0.07% expense ratio) S&P 500-like fund that screens out fossil fuelsThe 3-year effort to get approved by Fidelity and SchwabWhy $100M AUM unlocks access to the biggest 401(k) plansHow employee movements at Google, Apple, Microsoft create demand for these optionsSphere's go-to-market via creative advocacy campaigns (150M+ views)Business model: starting with low-fee scalability → expanding to higher-margin productsAlex's track record (co-founded Ayar Labs, now $1B+ valuation)2:00 – Alex's background & founding Sphere4:30 – What is the Sphere 500 Climate Fund?6:45 – Why 401(k)s are hard: fees, lawsuits & mutual funds vs ETFs9:40 – Getting onto Fidelity & Schwab: the 3-year process12:10 – AUM milestones: Why $100M matters14:50 – Building demand: Employee movements & advocacy campaigns17:30 – Business model & future fund lineup20:15 – Competitive moat & brand trust23:00 – Market size & exit thoughts (IPO vs M&A)
In today's episode, I sit down with Holly Skaggs, founder and CEO of Wild Tonic, to explore how she reclaimed her company after being forced out during a critical turning point. Holly shares how she rebuilt her team from the ground up, reduced production costs without sacrificing quality, and turned her Jun-based beverage into a favorite among professional athletes. We talk about her journey from heartbreak to resilience, the strategic reset that transformed Wild Tonic's future, and her mission to create clean energy drinks that support both people and the planet. Her story is a blueprint for leadership through adversity.
Council of Dudes Podcast | Episode ft. Eben Britton In this powerful episode of The Council of Dudes Podcast, Vinny Brusco sits down with the one and only Eben Britton former NFL offensive lineman turned spiritual seeker, podcast host, writer, and advocate for holistic living. Eben opens up about his NFL journey, the transition from the gridiron to deeper self-exploration, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Eben dives into his mission to help others awaken and heal through his own podcast, The Eben Flow, as well as his writing and teachings on consciousness, masculinity, and plant medicine. Eben also shares what it means to “Power by Love” — his personal mantra and movement (#PowerByLove).
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Diana: Relentless passion.Breast cancer treatment is long overdue for a revolution. Diana Tucker, CEO of SenoGuard, is leading the charge with an innovative alternative to post-lumpectomy radiation. Using advanced cryoablation technology, SenoGuard freezes the cavity where a tumor is removed, eliminating residual cancer cells in one procedure.Radiation has been the standard of care for decades, but it comes with significant physical, emotional, and financial costs. Diana explained in today's episode, “Radiation is horrible both clinically and cosmetically. It changes the shape, size, and feel of the breast. Many women face long-term emotional and physical side effects.” She shared the tragic story of a young breast cancer survivor whose radiation treatment ultimately damaged her heart. “I am very passionate about eliminating radiation if at all possible,” she said.SenoGuard's approach simplifies treatment. “The patient goes in for her tumor excision, and immediately we freeze the cavity where the tumor has been removed,” Diana said. “It's one and done. The patient can go back to work the very next day.” This innovation not only reduces the physical toll on patients but also addresses significant disparities in access to care. Many women forego lumpectomies because daily radiation sessions are unaffordable or inaccessible, especially in rural areas. Diana noted, “Almost 30% of women who qualify for a lumpectomy choose mastectomy instead because they can't afford the time or cost of radiation.”To bring this groundbreaking technology to market, SenoGuard is raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder. Diana emphasized the importance of public support, saying, “Everybody knows someone who has had breast cancer. By investing, people feel they are not just supporting a cause but making a difference for society.”SenoGuard's cryoablation technology has the potential to transform breast cancer treatment, making it less toxic, more accessible, and kinder to patients. By supporting their crowdfunding campaign, you could help bring this life-changing innovation to millions of women.tl;dr:Diana Tucker shared how SenoGuard's cryoablation technology eliminates the need for post-lumpectomy radiation.Radiation's side effects often force women to choose mastectomies, highlighting the need for better options.SenoGuard's innovation reduces treatment time, costs, and disparities in accessing breast cancer care.Diana described her relentless passion and how it drives her to overcome challenges in her work.SenoGuard is raising funds via a WeFunder campaign to bring this life-changing technology to market.How to Develop Relentless Passion As a SuperpowerDiana Tucker's superpower is her relentless passion for solving problems she truly believes in. As she explained in today's episode, “When I have a sincere understanding, I become very passionate, enthusiastic, and relentless to get that…across the finish line.” Her superpower drives her to tackle challenges with unwavering determination, especially when the stakes are high.Story Illustrating SuperpowerDiana shared a story from her early career, where she was tasked with bringing a French ophthalmology solution to the U.S. market. “The CEO told me, ‘If you can figure out how to bring this over to America, you have a job. If you can't, you're fired.'” Fueled by determination, she successfully introduced the technology, which became the standard of care. Years later, an ophthalmologist recognized her contribution with heartfelt gratitude, highlighting the profound and lasting impact of her work.Tips for Developing the SuperpowerFind Your Passion: Identify problems that deeply resonate with you to fuel your enthusiasm and drive.Share Your Vision: Build a team by inspiring others with your passion and clear vision.Never Give Up: When faced with roadblocks, find creative workarounds to keep moving forward.Believe in Yourself: Confidence in your abilities is key to overcoming challenges and achieving your goals.By following Diana's example and advice, you can make relentless passion a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileDiana Tucker (she/her):CEO, SenoGuardAbout SenoGuard: SenoGuard is pioneering a transformative approach to breast cancer treatment by offering a radiation-free alternative following lumpectomy. Our innovative technology uses advanced cryoablation--freezing residual cancer cells during surgery--to eliminate the need for weeks of post-op radiation.This method significantly reduces patient burden, especially for the 28% who face barriers like distance, cost, or time constraints.Supported by National Science Foundation grants, SenoGuard's solution is designed to be accessible in community hospitals, expanding treatment options globally. Led by a seasoned team with over a century of combined experience in women's healthcare, SenoGuard is committed to enhancing patient outcomes and accessibility.Website: SenoGuard.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/senoguardOther URL: wefunder.com/senoguardincBiographical Information: Diana Tucker is a strategic marketing executive with a distinguished track record in launching and growing innovative, paradigm-shifting medical technologies. With deep expertise in market analysis and opportunity identification, she has led high-impact global marketing initiatives across diagnostics, medical devices, and oncology. Known for her ability to anticipate market trends and apply creative strategies that drive adoption of innovative products, Diana has held leadership roles at companies such as Agendia, AMO, and J&J; as well as being a contributing editor for Thompson Reuters Biomedical Business International newsletter covering financial impacts of emerging technologies across all surgical specialties worldwide. Diana has continually demonstrated her talent for turning unmet clinical needs into successful business opportunities. Diana holds a B.S. in Molecular & Cellular Biology from UC Irvine and an MBA in Marketing from Pepperdine University.Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/dianatuckerLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/dianaltuckerSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Dopple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you'll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don't miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Apply for the Live Pitch here. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com's monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
"We as a society are guilty of turning a blind eye to the ongoing sexism and exploitation of women that is blatantly displayed in Hip Hop. You see, I love Hip Hop, but does Hip Hop love me?" - A Conscious Sista'. Misogyny is fundamentally defined as hatred and violence towards women. This "violence" is not limited to physical aggression; it extends to actions that make women feel uncomfortable, hostile behavior, harassment, and other things that cause hurt and trauma.• Misogynoir: When this hatred and violence are directed explicitly towards black women, it is referred to as Misogynoir. Biggie, The Great Frank White spit lyrics that demeaned women. Did he hate women? Does Hip-Hop hate women? Get On Code!This episode of Prof. Kimya's class focuses on misogyny within hip-hop culture, particularly examining the works of artists such as Biggie Smalls. Can hip-hop be revolutionary while simultaneously exhibiting misogynistic and homophobic elements, questioning the industry's power structures and the roles of both male and female artists? The conversation extends to how misogyny is perpetuated through lyrics and consumer expectations, touching upon historical contexts of sexualized content in media and the challenges of creating cultural change within the music industry. We need solutions for addressing misogyny in hip-hop, beyond mere boycotts, by fostering critical engagement, supporting local artists, and challenging deeply ingrained power dynamics.Yep. We're discussing Misogyny in Hip-Hop and Black Empowerment. Hip-hop, Misogyny in Hip-hop, Biggie Smalls, Notorious B.I.G., Golden Age Hip-hop, Hip-hop Lyrics, Professor Kimya, Dan Tres Omi, Misogynoir, Black Women in Hip-hop, R. Kelly, Sean Combs (Diddy), Afrika Bambaataa, Russell Simmons, Power Dynamics, Gender in Music, Hip-hop Culture, Revolutionary Hip-hop, Consent, Homophobia in Hip-hop, Music Industry Control, Underground Hip-hop, Boom Bap, Female MCs, Young M.A, Patricia Hill Collins, Harold Cruse, Community-Based Hip-hop, Artist Accountability, Music CensorshipInterested in sponsoring the channel? Email OurBlackImprovement@gmail.com. $20k - $90K of business funding - https://mbcapitalsolutions.com/positive-vibes-consulting/ Money for your business: https://davidallencapital.com/equipment-financing?u=&u=PositiveVibes Money for Real Estate Investments: https://PositiveVibesFinancial.com Purify yourself, house, and environment to remain safe: https://www.vollara.com/PositiveVibes Invest in stocks via STASH: https://get.stashinvest.com/sekosq72j Fix your credit: https://positivevibes.myecon.net/my-credit-system/ Raise money with Republic: https://republic.com/raise/i/jpdajr Raise money with WeFunder: https://wefunder.com/sekovarner/raise #GetOnCode #GetOnCodeShow #GetOnCodePodcast #TheFlyGuysShow #OmegaPsiPhi #Ques #Uplift #ConsciousCommunity #PanAfrican #FoundationalBlackAmerican #Indian #BlackIndian #Melanin #Indigenous #BIPOC #CopperColored #Moorish #B1 #FBA #ADOS #BlackAmerican #AfricanAmerican #Investment #WealthMoney, Melanin, Finance, Business, Black Business, B1, Black First, ADOS, Foundational Black American, African, Indigenous, Afro Latinx, Afro-Latino, Mechie X, Tariq Nasheed, Professor Black Truth, The Black Authority, America, Africa, Asiatic, Moorish, Moorish Science Temple, FOI, Christian, Noble Drew Ali, Malcolm X, Ebony, African American, Entrepreneur, #GetOnCode, Tone Talks, Crumb TV, Afrisynergy News, Black People, Nubian, Empowerment Agenda, Black Wall Street, Black Empowerment, Empowerment, Get On Code
What does it really take to carve out space for a new business in an industry dominated by giants? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Kimberly Evans, the inspiring founder and CEO of Just Her Rideshare, a women-centric rideshare service focused on safety, community, and empowerment.Kimberly shares her personal story of why she created Just Her Rideshare, drawing from her own experiences and deep commitment to serving women who often feel vulnerable using traditional rideshare options. As a fourth-generation entrepreneur, she talks candidly about the challenges of fundraising, the lessons learned from bootstrapping, and the value of staying connected to the community at every stage of growth.If you're passionate about startups, social impact, or want to understand the realities of building something new against the odds, this episode is a must-listen. Kimberly's journey is filled with actionable insights on fundraising, effective marketing, and the power of focusing on community—offering inspiration and practical advice to founders and investors alike.And don't forget you can also participate in the Wefunder crowdfunding campaign to support Just Her Rideshare.https://wefunder.com/justherrideshare/ To get the latest from Kimberly Evans, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/justherride/https://www.justherrideshare.com/ https://wefunder.com/justherrideshare/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Nicholas Tommarello is the Founder and CEO of Wefunder, a pioneering crowdfunding platform that allows individuals to invest in startups. He co-founded Wefunder in 2012, leveraging provisions from the 2012 JOBS Act to enable unaccredited investors to purchase equity in early-stage companies, thereby democratizing access to investment opportunities that were traditionally available only to wealthy individuals. Tommarello holds an MBA in Entrepreneurship from Babson College and participated in the prestigious startup accelerator Y Combinator in 2013.
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Lisa: Refusing to give up.Too many families face overwhelming challenges when trying to access life-saving benefits, often giving up before receiving the help they need. Lisa Marino, Founder and CEO of Dopple, has made it her mission to simplify the process.Lisa's personal experience navigating the welfare system while earning her MBA at Stanford inspired her to create Dopple. She explained, “We built for others what we did for ourselves to get our own family through.” Her platform connects families to an array of funding sources—government benefits, philanthropic programs, and contributions from friends and family—by streamlining the process into a simple, AI-driven solution.In today's episode, Lisa highlighted a staggering statistic: “40% of families eligible for SNAP are so overwhelmed by the application process that many just drop out.” She's determined to eliminate this friction, helping families secure critical funding for essentials like childcare, diapers, and even college savings.Dopple's approach begins with a 12-month budget, encouraging families to think comprehensively about their needs. The platform then leverages AI to match families with available resources and funding opportunities. Lisa shared, “We've taken this budget that maybe started at $25,000 and start whacking away at it… shifting $20,000 plus from being out of pocket to the family to the village that wants to support them.”Dopple's innovative model also addresses the philanthropic side. By fractionalizing gifting, Dopple enables friends, family, and organizations to contribute directly to a family's needs. Additionally, the company generates revenue through subscription-based kids' clothing and essential products like diapers and formula.Lisa's commitment to making a difference extends beyond her platform's services. Dopple is currently raising funds on Wefunder, inviting everyday individuals to invest in the company's vision. Lisa explained, “I believe in being egalitarian… If we're trying to help families fund the basics, we need to walk the walk.”By tackling the bureaucratic hurdles that prevent families from accessing critical support, Lisa and Dopple are making an extraordinary impact. Learn more about their mission and investment opportunity at thedopple.com/invest.tl;dr:Lisa Marino, CEO of Dopple, shares her journey navigating welfare systems during her MBA at Stanford.Dopple simplifies access to critical benefits, combining AI and a comprehensive family budgeting platform.The platform connects families to funding sources, reducing out-of-pocket expenses by leveraging their community.Lisa emphasizes Dopple's egalitarian approach, inviting individuals to invest via a Wefunder campaign.Her superpower, refusing to give up, drives her to tackle challenges with persistence and grit.How to Develop Refusing to Give Up As a SuperpowerLisa Marino's superpower is her unrelenting tenacity to overcome obstacles. She described it simply: “The hard part was sitting down and figuring it out.” Whether navigating complex welfare systems during her pregnancy or guiding her company through challenges, Lisa defines success as persistence. As she told her kids, “People who put on the big kid pants clean it up… and move forward.”Lisa's determination was tested during her time as CEO of Rocky. She inherited a company with a $400 million preference stack and declining revenue. Despite being advised against taking the role, she worked tirelessly to restructure the business, rebuild profitability, and grow through acquisitions. Years of difficult conversations and strategic moves eventually led to success—an exemplary display of perseverance.Tips for Developing This Superpower:Set Realistic Expectations: Focus on achieving small wins, even when faced with overwhelming challenges.Embrace the Grind: Accept that progress takes time and effort, and remain committed to the vision.Allow Yourself Breaks: Give yourself permission to recharge when needed, such as Lisa's “quarterly pity party.”Take Control: Address challenges proactively rather than waiting for them to escalate.By following Lisa's example and advice, you can make refusing to give up a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileLisa Marino (she/her):Founder and CEO, DoppleAbout Dopple: Two thirds of all families live paycheck to paycheck yet billions of federal and philanthropic dollars earmarked for these families go unused each year. The system is opaque, inefficient, and requires an advanced degree to navigate. I know this because at one point, before I became a successful operator, I was forced to navigate it for my family. Dopple is the platform to bring transparency and efficiency to the flow of funds in this market. We are the qualification engine and payment rails in the middle. Dopple launches in July in New Jersey, and I am looking for a famly foundation with an aligned vision to be a design and beta partner with us. Use of funds will be to cover needs such as diapers, childcare and tuition for mid to low income families in NJ.Website: thedopple.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/thedoppleOther URL: thedopple.com/investBiographical Information: - First person in my immigrant Mexican family to go to college, which I paid for myself. BS Wharton, MBA Stanford GSB, MA Latin American Studies, Stanford.- Reformed tech M&A banker and 3rd time entrepreneur who gets it done while a single mom. - Bootstrapped my last company and sold it to McClatchy in January 2024.- Designed with my daughter and then GC'd my home build during 2022-2023 in Big Sky, MT while simultaneously running a company. Every piece of trim in my house I stained myself. - At 54, there's still no friends on powder days.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lisa-marino-b520545Instagram Handle: @thedopple Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, DealMaker, DNA, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive). Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on August 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, August 20, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Your Portal, Your Future: How to Choose the Right Reg CF Platform." With so many investment crowdfunding portals available today, selecting the right one can be overwhelming for both founders and investors. In this session, Devin will break down the critical factors to consider—such as platform fees, audience demographics, compliance support, industry focus, and overall user experience. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or an investor exploring where to put your dollars to work, you'll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to evaluate and choose the platform that best aligns with your goals. Don't miss this practical, insight-packed hour designed to help you take your next step in the Reg CF ecosystem with confidence.SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Apply for the Live Pitch here. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com's monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
What happens when an entrepreneur turns their biggest fear—asking for money—into their secret weapon for success? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Maria Springer, founder of Capital Department, to discuss how founders can overcome fundraising anxiety and unlock new paths to capital.Maria's journey began in the social enterprise world of East Africa, where she quickly learned that mastering fundraising was vital to making an impact. Her hard-won expertise now powers Capital Department, a firm that has helped startups secure over $200 million, with a special emphasis on fueling growth through innovative community rounds and crowdfunding.This episode is essential listening for startup founders and investors alike. Maria and Marcia dive into how narrative and organization are key to successful fundraising, the evolving landscape of crowdfunding, and why engaging your community is more powerful than ever. If you want practical fundraising advice and insider stories—like how Pirouette outperformed Substack with a record-setting raise—this conversation is packed with takeaways you won't want to miss. To get the latest from Maria Springer, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariaspringer/https://www.capitaldept.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood
Is Bro' Seko Sexist? Do Brothers ignore Sisters? Should #shannonsharpe listen to Monique? Prof. Dr. Kimya Nuru Dennis chats with the "Professor's Pet" - Bro' Seko, about the patriarchy and how brothers far too often underrate the things Sisters bring to the table. Tap-in #codekeepers !Explore the complex issue of whether Black men listen to Black women, particularly in the context of patriarchy. The discussion begins with an anecdote about celebrity interactions to illustrate perceived disinterest in women's advice, then expands into historical and sociological perspectives. The hosts examine how societal expectations and historical comparisons between Black men and white men have shaped gender dynamics. They also scrutinize the concept of "chivalry" and its potential to inadvertently demean women, while advocating for critical thinking and individual understanding over ingrained gender roles. Ultimately, the conversation encourages Black men to challenge patriarchal norms for the betterment of the collective.Empower Consciousness: Note - The Get On Code: Our Black Empowerment channel hosts content that may not represent the views, opinions, and positions of the platform owners, participants, or partners. Get On Code, share the code, teach the code, become the code. Our code is empowerment. Focused on #Empowerment, and passionate about #BlackEmpowerment, the Get On Code : Our Black Empowerment platform, is built on the #EmpowermentAgenda . Interested in sponsoring the podcast? Email OurBlackImprovement@gmail.com . Watch Seko's film here: www.GenerationalFlip.com $20k - $90K of business funding - https://mbcapitalsolutions.com/positi... Money for your business: https://davidallencapital.com/equipme... Money for Real Estate Investments: https://PositiveVibesFinancial.com Purify yourself, house, and environment to remain safe: https://www.vollara.com/PositiveVibes Invest in stocks via STASH: https://get.stashinvest.com/sekosq72j Fix your credit: https://positivevibes.myecon.net/my-c... Raise money with Republic: https://republic.com/raise/i/jpdajr Raise money with WeFunder: https://wefunder.com/sekovarner/raise #GetOnCode #GetOnCodeShow #GetOnCodePodcast #TheFlyGuysShow #OmegaPsiPhi #Ques #Uplift #ConsciousCommunity #PanAfrican #FoundationalBlackAmerican #Indian #BlackIndian #Melanin #Indigenous #BIPOC #CopperColored #Moorish #B1 #FBA #ADOS #BlackAmerican #AfricanAmerican #Investment #Wealth • Patriarchy • Black men not listening to black women • Gender roles • Black women leadership • Shannon Sharp Mo'Nique • Black empowerment • Gendered chivalry • African cultures • Racial justice • Civil Rights Movement • Septima Clark • Malcolm X • Martin Luther King Jr. • Black men's health • Relationship advice • Unconscious bias • Communication challenges • Historical context • Male dominance • Societal expectations • Critical thinking • Generational Flip • Professor Kimya's Class • Get On Code • Podcast discussion • YouTube video • Black identity • White man's ice is colder • Eldridge Cleaver • Frederick Douglas • Ella Baker • Cat Williams Diddy • Prostate cancer awareness • Black men's therapy • Religion and gender • Adam and Eve interpretation • Masculinity • Femininity • Site Black Women • Black community issues
Did you know that asthma attacks actually build up over weeks, not minutes? Most of us envision asthma attacks as sudden emergencies, but the truth is far more complex - and understanding this could save lives.Dr. Awesome sits down with Sharon Samjitsingh, CEO of Health Care Originals, to discuss their groundbreaking wearable technology that listens to deep organ sounds in real-time. This innovative patch, worn discreetly under clothing, can predict asthma attacks up to three months in advance by detecting subtle changes in lung sounds that occur weeks before visible symptoms appear.Key highlights from the conversation:How Health Care Originals developed a wearable device that processes organ sounds on-board rather than streaming to the cloudThe science behind using acoustic monitoring to detect respiratory changes weeks before traditional symptoms appearSharon's personal experience with asthma and how it drove her to create technology that could have prevented her own near-death experiencesThe Nightingale Virtual Respiratory Care system that combines early detection with personalized interventionCommercial milestones including becoming the exclusive virtual respiratory care supplier for a purchasing coalition managing 400,000 livesSharon shares her journey from winning a business plan competition to securing millions in funding, including her current community-focused fundraising round on WeFunder that allows everyday investors to participate alongside venture capitalists.The conversation also explores broader implications for healthcare technology, including the potential for democratizing access to health data, the role of AI in reducing administrative burdens, and how wearable technology could transform our understanding of the human body beyond respiratory conditions.Whether you're interested in health tech innovations, wearable devices, or the future of personalized medicine, this episode offers valuable insights into how simple technology can address complex health challenges.
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Shree: DeterminationClimate change often feels like a distant, abstract concept, but Shree Gurung, Founder & CEO of worldvlogchallenge.com, is bringing it to life through an innovative reality TV show filmed on Mount Everest. By blending adventure, competition, and impactful storytelling, Gurung aims to draw global attention to the alarming speed at which Himalayan glaciers are melting.The groundbreaking project, World Vlog Challenge, features YouTube creators from around the world competing in a grueling trek to Everest Base Camp while documenting the effects of climate change on the region. The competition offers a $100,000 prize and has already premiered on Amazon Prime in the US and UK, with a global release planned for August 7.The show's purpose goes beyond entertainment. Gurung explained, “The springs, rivers, and waterfalls that feed billions of lives downstream originate here. Through this challenge, we show YouTubers—and their audiences—the source of freshwater and the critical role glaciers play in our ecosystem.”The melting of Himalayan glaciers, once a slow, natural process, has accelerated dramatically due to human influence. “Normally, it would take hundreds of years to form a meter of glacier,” he said. “Now, they're melting in just ten years. That speed is dangerous.”What sets the World Vlog Challenge apart is its focus on engaging younger generations. Recognizing that traditional scientific communication often struggles to reach this audience, Gurung chose YouTubers as his storytellers. “These creators are great storytellers and can bring the stories of the glaciers to life in a relatable, engaging way,” he said.Funding such an ambitious project posed significant challenges. After exhausting traditional investment channels, Gurung turned to regulated investment crowdfunding via WeFunder. “We're asking the community to support something that promotes Nepal, the Himalayas, and awareness about climate change,” he shared.Through determination and creativity, Gurung has created a show that is both educational and entertaining. By focusing on the human drama of the trek and the urgent message of climate change, World Vlog Challenge stands as a testament to the power of storytelling and collaboration.Those interested in supporting the project can visit the Wefunder campaign at [wefunder.com/challengerseverest] and watch the show when it becomes available globally on August 7.tl;dr:Shree Gurung's World Vlog Challenge uses reality TV to highlight climate change and melting glaciers.YouTube creators compete for $100,000 while trekking to Everest Base Camp, documenting the journey.The show blends adventure and education to engage younger audiences on critical climate issues.Shree's determination enabled him to overcome funding and production challenges for this ambitious project.The show is now on Amazon Prime, with a global release set for August 7.How to Develop Determination As a SuperpowerShree Gurung describes his superpower as determination, the ability to persevere through challenges and setbacks. In today's episode, he explained, “There were so many moments I wanted to give up, but I didn't have a choice. I knew I was doing something good for the community, and that kept me going.” Shree's determination has fueled his ability to produce a groundbreaking reality show about climate change, overcoming obstacles like lack of funding and global skepticism about a Nepal-based production.Shree shared how his determination enabled him to produce the World Vlog Challenge. Despite rejections from sponsors and studios, he single-handedly managed production, marketing, and logistics for the show. “For around 45 days, I didn't sleep properly,” he recalled. Coming from a rural Nepalese village and lacking traditional resources, Shree drew on his experiences of hardship to push forward, creating a globally recognized project that showcases both Nepal's culture and the urgency of climate change.Tips for Developing Determination:Find Your Passion: Shree emphasized that clarity of purpose drives determination. Identify what inspires you.Break Down Challenges: Focus on one step at a time, especially when the big picture feels overwhelming.Seek Community Support: Surround yourself with people who validate your mission and provide encouragement.Embrace Responsibility: Commit fully to your goals, even when quitting feels easier.By following Shree's example and advice, you can make determination a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileShree Gurung (he/him):Founder & CEO, worldvlogchallenge.comAbout worldvlogchallenge.com: An Impact media startup from the Himalayas, uniting creators from across the world to raise awareness about climate change: Their journey is a reality show.Website: worldvlogchallenge.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/WorldVlogChallengeOther URL: shreegurung.comBiographical Information: I am a film graduate, communication PhD scholar with over 2 decades in media, events & hospitality.Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/theshreegurungLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/shreegurungInstagram Handle: instagram.com/theshreegurungSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, DNA, DealMaker, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive). Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on July 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, July 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Balance Sheets & Beyond: The Impact Investor's Guide to Financials." If terms like “income statement” and “cash flow” make your eyes glaze over, this session is for you. Devin will break down the fundamentals of financial statements in clear, simple language—perfect for beginners who want to better understand the numbers behind the businesses they support. Whether you're a new investor, a founder navigating financials, or simply curious about how money moves through mission-driven companies, you'll leave this session more confident and informed. Don't miss it!SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Apply for the Live Pitch here. VIPs get access to our better-than-in-person networking, including backstage passes, VIP networking and an exclusive VIP webinar! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com's monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Matt: Turning passion into purpose.Emerald Prairie is on a mission to revolutionize home care with products that are not only safe for people and pets but also environmentally beneficial. At the heart of its innovation is hypochlorous acid (HOCL), a powerful yet natural disinfectant that Matt Condon, Founder of Emerald Prairie, describes as “nature's disinfectant.” In today's episode, Matt shared how his company is challenging the status quo with products that are effective, safe, and eco-friendly.HOCL isn't new. In fact, it has been around since World War I when it was used to treat soldiers. “It is an incredibly powerful antibacterial disinfectant,” Matt explained. “It would be ubiquitous throughout the country and the world if not for the way the chemical industrial complex evolved.” Emerald Prairie has found a way to scale the production of HOCL, offering a solution that's “made by your body” and safe enough to spray on your hands or even in your mouth.What makes Emerald Prairie stand out isn't just HOCL's effectiveness; it's the company's commitment to transparency and environmental impact. “All of our ingredients are on every label—nothing hidden,” Matt said. He added that the products not only avoid harming the environment but actually benefit it. “The best thing that can happen to hypochlorous acid is it gets to the water system because it kills the biofilm.”Emerald Prairie's business is thriving. The company has seen a surge in subscriptions, which Matt described as resembling the “proverbial hockey stick.” This growth, he believes, reflects customer trust and satisfaction. Emerald Prairie's solutions are produced in Kansas, reflecting the company's commitment to local manufacturing.To scale its impact and reach, Emerald Prairie is raising capital via a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder. This approach aligns with Matt's mission to connect directly with customers and investors who share his vision.Emerald Prairie isn't just selling safe cleaning products; it's starting a movement. By replacing toxic chemicals with solutions that are safe for families and the environment, Matt and his team are proving that you don't have to compromise safety for effectiveness. This is your chance to join a revolution in home care—by supporting Emerald Prairie, you can help make the world a cleaner, safer place.tl;dr:Matt Condon explained how Emerald Prairie's products use hypochlorous acid to deliver safe, effective cleaning.The company's all-natural solutions are environmentally beneficial, improving ecosystems instead of harming them.Emerald Prairie is scaling operations with local production and growing customer subscriptions rapidly.Matt revealed his passion for building purpose-driven ventures that align with his values and mission.The company is raising funds via regulated crowdfunding, inviting supporters to invest in its growth.How to Develop Turning Passion Into Purpose As a SuperpowerMatt Condon's superpower is his ability to transform passion into purpose-driven business ventures. He explained, “I've been so fortunate in my career to go through…efforts where I wasn't really focused on the sales revenue as much as doing something…that the world needed.” This approach, he shared, reflects a belief that “capitalism is the most powerful engine of good in the world.” For Matt, success comes from aligning his passions with businesses that create meaningful impact while maintaining financial viability.Matt shared how his passion for solving real-world problems led him to create a network of clinics providing top-tier healthcare to workers like farmers, firefighters, and police officers. Drawing inspiration from his roots in a farming community, Matt realized that the quality of care available to professional athletes could and should be extended to laborers. He built clinics that offered advanced healthcare solutions, improving outcomes for countless individuals in physically demanding jobs. This venture not only succeeded financially but also changed lives, exemplifying how passion-driven businesses can create profound impact.Tips for Developing This Superpower:Identify Problems You're Passionate About Solving: Focus on challenges that resonate with your values and experiences.Take Calculated Risks: Embrace risk as part of the journey to create meaningful impact.Build Around a Mission: Ensure your business aligns with a core purpose beyond profitability.Engage Support Systems: Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and can provide encouragement.Stay Focused Amid Noise: Cut out distractions to concentrate on what truly matters.By following Matt's example and advice, you can make turning passion into purpose a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileMatthew (Matt) Condon (he/him):Founder, Emerald Prairie HealthAbout Emerald Prairie Health: At Emerald Prairie Health, our mission began with a discovery—not of a new chemistry, but of how to finally unlock one that scientists have trusted for over a century. Despite its unmatched safety and proven performance, this powerful solution was kept on the sidelines—overlooked or suppressed by chemical giants who saw HOCl as a threat to their legacy products. We saw something different at EPH. Using our proprietary water purification process, we developed a way to produce this chemistry in its purest, most stable, and effective form—and bring it to market at scale. Today, we're helping families protect their loved ones and lead the next generation of wellness—through cleaner, safer, and more sustainable alternatives for home and body.Website: emeraldprairiehome.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/emeraldprairiehomeBiographical Information: Matthew J. Condon is a nationally recognized healthcare entrepreneur, thought leader, and advocate for transparency and innovation in the healthcare system. As the Founder and former CEO of Bardavon Health Innovations—a leading healthcare data analytics company transforming Workers' Compensation—Matt combined his deep industry insight with a passion for disrupting outdated care models. Prior to Bardavon, he founded ARC Physical Therapy+ in 2003, growing it into one of the Midwest's largest PT networks with over 100,000 annual patient visits. In June 2024, Matt stepped down as CEO of Bardavon and began his transition into founding Emerald Prairie Health, a consumer health company delivering safe, science-backed alternatives for home and body care. He was the youngest Chair in the 120+ year history of the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and has been honored as a regional Ernst & Young “Entrepreneur of the Year” finalist, named to Ingram's “40 Under 40” and “Rainmakers” lists, and featured on the Kansas City Business Journal's “Power 100” list of the region's most influential business leaders.X/Twitter Handle: @theMattCondon Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/matthew-condon-86905412Instagram Handle: @mcondon0730Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, DealMaker, DNA, Proactive-Rancho. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on July 15, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, July 16, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "Balance Sheets & Beyond: The Impact Investor's Guide to Financials." If terms like “income statement” and “cash flow” make your eyes glaze over, this session is for you. Devin will break down the fundamentals of financial statements in clear, simple language—perfect for beginners who want to better understand the numbers behind the businesses they support. Whether you're a new investor, a founder navigating financials, or simply curious about how money moves through mission-driven companies, you'll leave this session more confident and informed. Don't miss it!SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition, but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. VIP's get access to our better-than-in-person networking! Get your VIP access for just $25. A select group of affordable sponsorship opportunities is still available. Learn more here.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com's monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.Future Forward Summit: San Francisco, Wednesday, June 25 · 3:30 - 8:30 pm PDT.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Steve Holmberg joins the podcast to dive deeper into his presentation notes from TrailCon on the state of the trail running industry. We go beyond his talking points and dig into the details and direction for his top nine trends, including the future of athletes in the space. Show Notes: Steve Holmberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenholmberg/ Insight Accelerator: https://www.stephenholmberg.com/ Second Nature - Insights 101 Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-single-phrase-that-helps-brands-innovate/id1737242598?i=1000697637448 Rest Day Podcast (Dylan, Trappe, Corrine): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rest-day-trail-running-tastemakers-shea-aquilano-to/id1492327668?i=1000712502533 BPC: Brand, Product, Content Wild Rye: https://wild-rye.com/ Wild Rye on WeFunder: https://wefunder.com/wildrye Mel Strong + Cassie Abel Webinar: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/investing-wefunder-webinar-with-cassie-abel-and-mel-strong-tickets-1431678140859 Wild Rye on Second Nature: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-past-present-and-future-of-wild-rye/id1737242598?i=1000691102663 Mel Strong on Second Nature: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mel-strong-from-nike-to-next-ventures/id1737242598?i=1000679472198 High Fives Foundation: https://highfivesfoundation.org/ Join us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/second-nature-media Meet us on Slack: https://www.launchpass.com/second-nature Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secondnature.media Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.secondnature.media Subscribe to the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@secondnaturemedia
How can everyday people become startup investors? How can business owners secure funding without giving up control, relying on traditional banks, or chasing venture capital? Today's guest has the solution! In this episode of Cut to the Chase: Podcast, Gregg is joined by Jonny Price, President of Wefunder, to explore the rise of investment crowdfunding and how Wefunder is making it more accessible to people like you and me. Jonny shares how platforms like WeFunder differ from Kickstarter and GoFundMe, how founders can raise capital from their communities, and how regular people can invest in startups—from tech to taco joints—for as little as $100. Highlighting real-world success stories and candid insights about risk, returns, and the future of fintech, this episode is for founders and aspiring investors alike. What to expect in this episode: Crowdfunding Decoded: The key differences between Kickstarter, GoFundMe, and investment platforms like WeFunder Breaking the Barriers: How regulation crowdfunding opened the private markets to everyday investors From Main Street to IPO: How local businesses and billion-dollar startups raised capital from regular people The Reality Check: What investors need to know about risk, illiquidity, and long-term returns The Founder's Playbook: Steps to prepare, structure, and legally launch a successful crowdfunding campaign Law & Compliance 101: What attorneys must understand about SEC rules and equity crowdfunding deal terms The Story Sells: Why narrative, community engagement, and relentless hustle make or break a raise What's Next in Fintech: Predictions on the future of private market access and the evolving legal landscape Key Actionable Takeaways: Know Your Model: Donation platforms offer perks; WeFunder offers equity—choose based on your business goals and capital needs Invest with Eyes Open: Crowdfunding can democratize investing, but startups are risky—never invest more than you can afford to lose Build Before You Fundraise: Founders should validate demand, grow a community, and prepare a compelling pitch before launching Legal First, Always: Ensure SEC compliance, proper deal structure, and legal review before going live with an investment offering Stay tuned for more updates, and don't miss our next deep dive on Cut to The Chase: Podcast with Gregg Goldfarb! Subscribe, rate, review, and share this episode of the Cut to the Chase: Podcast! Resources: Check out Wefunder: https://wefunder.com See Jonny's investments: https://wefunder.com/jonny Connect with Jonny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonnyprice This episode was produced and brought to you by Reignite Media.
In this episode of Views from the Bus, Bob sits down with Justin Renfro, the Director of Growth at Wefunder, about how raising capital can be possible through community rounds. Traditionally companies relied on angel investors and venture capitalist for support. Now, with the help of Wefunder, founders can invite their customers, colleagues, friends, and family to invest. The result? A much wider funnel of support, creating an engaged community of individuals who are literally invested in your success.Listen in to learn how community-backed funding could be your company's competitive edge and learn more at Wefunder.com.
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Webb: ResiliencePlastic has become an omnipresent part of childhood, with most toys made from this enduring material. But what if there were a better way—something sustainable, durable, and just as fun? Webb Knudsen, CEO and founder of Playper, has created a solution. Playper produces planet-friendly, buildable toy sets made from an innovative material called “Playper board.” These toys not only spark children's imagination but are also designed to reduce plastic waste.Webb explained, “Playper is award-winning, planet-friendly, buildable playsets and storytelling card sets designed for imagination-inspiring pretend play.” He continued, “We make our toys out of a material called Playper board. It's durable, thick, and flexible… you can spill water, ketchup, whatever on it and wipe it right off.”Playper's toys are designed to endure even the roughest play while inspiring creativity. They feature a unique tongue-and-groove slotting system, creating a satisfying “click” when assembled. This system ensures that kids can build and rebuild their toys, offering hours of hands-on engagement.The company has already gained traction, with products available at Barnes & Noble, Amazon, Walmart.com, and in dozens of independent toy stores. Webb's mission to create sustainable toys has resonated with parents seeking alternatives to plastic. “There's a lot of demand for more sustainable toy options,” Webb said. “The majority… of all toys are made out of plastic. I really felt like there had to be a better way.”In addition to its environmental focus, Playper emphasizes education. Webb described how the toys' storytelling elements and social-emotional learning features set them apart. “They teach kids about their emotions,” he said. “That's a real big segment within toys.”Playper is also raising capital through WeFunder, allowing everyday people to invest in the company. “I wanted the average person to be able to invest in our business,” Webb explained. “It really is the type of business that resonates with normal everyday people.”By creating toys that prioritize sustainability and imagination, Webb and Playper are building a better future for kids and the planet.tl;dr:Playper creates durable, eco-friendly toys from paper to reduce plastic waste and inspire kids' creativity.The toys are available nationwide, including at Barnes & Noble, and emphasize storytelling and education.Webb Knudsen credits his success to resilience, adapting through challenges to refine Playper's products.Playper is raising capital via WeFunder, inviting everyday people to invest in its sustainable mission.Webb's leadership, team-building skills, and passion for innovation drive Playper's growth and impact.How to Develop Resilience As a SuperpowerWebb Knudsen identifies his resilience as a key superpower, enabling him to persevere through challenges. “When things don't go well, I get back up, brush myself off, and keep going,” he shared. Webb keeps two motivational reminders at his desk: an image of a frog refusing to be swallowed with the caption “never give up,” and a quote from tennis player Vitus Gerolitis, “Nobody beats Vitus Gerolitis 17 times in a row.” These keep him grounded, reminding him to stay persistent despite setbacks.Webb shared that Playper's journey has not been an overnight success. The company has faced numerous challenges, from refining its materials to pivoting product lines. Through trial and error, Webb and his team found the right formula for sustainable, buildable toys. Their persistence paid off, with Playper now sold nationwide at Barnes & Noble and in independent toy stores. Webb's ability to adapt and keep moving forward, even after setbacks, exemplifies his resilience.Tips for Developing Resilience:Focus on the Bigger Picture: Remind yourself of your mission and the purpose behind your work.Stay Motivated with Visual Cues: Use quotes or images that inspire perseverance to keep you grounded during tough times.Adapt and Pivot: Learn from failures and try new approaches until you find what works.Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge milestones, even small ones, to maintain momentum.Draw Inspiration from Loved Ones: Spend time with those who remind you of your “why,” like Webb does with his kids.By following Webb Knudsen's example and advice, you can make resilience a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileWebb Knudsen (he/him):CEO & Founder, PlayperAbout Playper: Playper is a forward-thinking toy brand that makes build-it-yourself storytelling playsets designed to spark imagination and parent-child bonding - with zero plastic waste. Our products use PlayperBoard®, a unique ultra-durable material that's kid-safe, toxin-free, and recyclable. Our “Buildable Storytelling” format is STEAM-accredited and built for brand expansion. We're backed by the former CEOs of Fisher Price, J. Crew, and Dell, and Chief Brand Officer of Mattel. We're led by former execs from Mattel, LEGO, Spin Master, and more.Website: playper.comX/Twitter Handle: @PlayperKidsCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/PlayperToysOther URL: wefunder.com/playperBiographical Information: Webb Knudsen is a seasoned investor and entrepreneur with a deep track record in consumer brands.As Vice President at the private equity firm Partnership Capital Growth (PCG), Webb leads deal sourcing and investment strategy. PCG, an 18-year-old firm focused on health and wellness brands—from food & beverage to supplements and fitness—has made 35 investments and deployed over $500M across three funds and SPVs, achieving a 2x+ MOIC through 18 exits and six thriving portfolio companies.Webb is also Founder and Managing Partner of Knudsen Capital (KC), a bicoastal family office investing in early-stage, high-growth companies aiming to improve lives. Under his leadership, KC has backed about 40 consumer brands, with four acquisitions and standout returns including one company valued at 10x and another at 30x. The KC portfolio has realized a 3.3x MOIC across its investments.Before investing, Webb built a dynamic operating career across entertainment, tech, and media—holding leadership roles in sales, BD, and marketing at companies like Lucasfilm, Crisp, Aarki, and Millennial Reach. He began in film and media at Walden Media and CAA, and co-founded two startups before stepping in as CEO of Playper, a sustainable toy company for kids.Webb holds a dual degree in Sociology and Speech Communication from Pepperdine. He's a dad of four, Cub Scout Den Leader, dog lover, snowboarder, and music lover, and has lived in 4 countries and 20 cities.X/Twitter Handle: @WebbKnudsenPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/webb.knudsenLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/webbknudsenInstagram Handle: @WebbKnudsenSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Kingscrowd, and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on June 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, June 18, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Jason Fishman, Co-Founder and CEO of Digital Niche Agency (DNA), will lead a session on "How to Spin $1 of Advertising into $10!" He'll reveal proven strategies and marketing insights drawn from years of experience helping successful crowdfunding campaigns. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or a supporter of innovative startups, you'll gain actionable tips to boost visibility, drive engagement, and hit your funding goals. Don't miss it!Join us on June 25, 2025, at 8:00 PM Eastern for the Superpowers for Good Live Pitch—streaming on e360tv, where purpose-driven founders take the virtual stage to present their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a national audience of investors and changemakers. Selected startups are chosen for their commitment to community, alignment with NC3's Community Capital Principles, and their drive to create real-world impact. Thanks to sponsors DNA and DealMaker, this event is free to watch and amplifies the voices of underrepresented and mission-aligned entrepreneurs. Don't miss this inspiring evening where capital meets purpose—tune in to discover and support the next wave of impact-driven innovation.SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we'll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com's monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Scott: Bias for actionFirefighters face life-threatening risks every day, and for too long, many of these dangers have gone unaddressed. Scott Holman, CEO and Founder of Red Line Safety, is on a mission to change that with innovative technology designed to protect firefighters in real time and improve their long-term health.Scott, a retired firefighter himself, brings decades of experience to this venture. His company builds wearable devices that gather physiological and environmental data, an advanced communication infrastructure to transmit the data, and a cloud-based dashboard for incident managers to monitor conditions and make data-driven decisions. "We create a solution that not only protects firefighters in real time but also helps them address long-term health issues," Scott explained during this episode of Superpowers for Good.The technology has already proven its potential. In one pilot test, Red Line Safety identified a critical health issue in a 24-year-old firefighter, enabling life-saving surgery. Scott shared, “When you tell firefighters these stories, they can't wait to use the technology. They want to know what they're exposed to, how they're responding physiologically, and they want to create an exposure record.”The market opportunity for Red Line Safety is enormous. Scott explained that the global market for firefighter safety equipment is valued at $20 billion. With patented technology and first-to-market status, Red Line Safety is poised to scale quickly. The company has already attracted attention from national and international organizations.To bring this life-saving technology to more firefighters, Red Line Safety is raising capital through a regulated crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder. Anyone interested in supporting this mission can visit s4g.biz/redline to learn more and consider investing.Every firefighter deserves to come home safely. Scott's vision, paired with Red Line Safety's groundbreaking technology, makes that goal closer to a reality.tl;dr:Red Line Safety develops wearable tech and cloud systems to protect firefighters in real time.Founder Scott Holman, a retired firefighter, brings decades of firsthand experience to the company's mission.The technology has already saved lives and provides invaluable data for long-term firefighter health.The $20 billion global market offers enormous potential for scaling Red Line Safety's patented solutions.A Wefunder campaign invites everyone to invest in this innovative, life-saving technology.How to Develop Bias for Action As a SuperpowerScott Holman describes his superpower as a “bias for action.” This stems from his Marine Corps training, which instilled a belief that he could accomplish any goal he set his mind to. “I came out of [boot camp] feeling extremely confident, like there's nothing I couldn't do,” Scott shared. This confidence has driven him to tackle challenges head-on, even in unfamiliar territory.Early in his life, Scott exemplified his bias for action by building a home for his family. Despite having no prior experience, he purchased a kit home, bought land in a rural community, and assembled the house largely on his own. “I realized we needed a house, and the only way I could do it was to build it myself. And I did,” he recalled, inspiring others to take bold steps as well.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Don't talk yourself out of trying something just because you haven't done it before.Believe in your ability to learn and adapt as you go.Build a support system—seek advice and collaboration from others with complementary skills.Don't fear failure; instead, view it as a learning opportunity, as Edison famously did.Take the first step and commit to seeing the project through, even if you need to pivot.By following Scott's example and advice, you can make a bias for action a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileScott Holman (he/him):Founder & CEO, Red Line SafetyAbout Red Line Safety: Red Line Safety is a mission-driven technology company founded by a retired Fire Captain and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, dedicated to protecting those who protect us. We develop cutting-edge wearable technology and deployable communication networks that provide real-time data on firefighter location, environmental hazards, toxic exposures, and vital signs, especially in remote areas without cellular coverage. By equipping incident commanders and safety officers with actionable insights, Red Line Safety enhances operational effectiveness, firefighter health and wellness, and public safety during structure fires, wildland incidents, and all-hazard emergencies.Website: redlinesafety.comX/Twitter Handle: @RLSFireCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/redlinesafety2018Other URL: wefunder.com/redlinesafetyincBiographical Information: Scott Holman is a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and recently retired Fire Captain from the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District, with over 33 years of experience in Fire & EMS. He is the Founder and CEO of Red Line Safety, a veteran-owned, Delaware C-corporation formed on 9/11/2018, dedicated to advancing wearable technology and deployable communication networks for first responders. With degrees in Fire Administration and a proven record of innovation, including initiating the effort to develop a fire service drone program, working to establish a Type II hand crew, and co-creating a leadership program, Scott brings deep industry insight and frontline credibility to the complex challenges facing public safety. His work is driven by a personal mission to prevent line-of-duty deaths and occupational illnesses through real-time data, and to deliver scalable solutions that enhance firefighter safety, operational efficiency, and long-term health outcomes.Personal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/scott.holman.54Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/scott-holman-2013a93a/Instagram Handle: @redlinesafetyincSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Kingscrowd, and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on June 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, June 18, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Jason Fishman, Co-Founder and CEO of Digital Niche Agency (DNA), will lead a session on "How to Spin $1 of Advertising into $10!" He'll reveal proven strategies and marketing insights drawn from years of experience helping successful crowdfunding campaigns. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or a supporter of innovative startups, you'll gain actionable tips to boost visibility, drive engagement, and hit your funding goals. Don't miss it!Join us on June 25, 2025, at 8:00 PM Eastern for the Superpowers for Good Live Pitch—streaming on e360tv, where purpose-driven founders take the virtual stage to present their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a national audience of investors and changemakers. Selected startups are chosen for their commitment to community, alignment with NC3's Community Capital Principles, and their drive to create real-world impact. Thanks to sponsors DNA and DealMaker, this event is free to watch and amplifies the voices of underrepresented and mission-aligned entrepreneurs. Don't miss this inspiring evening where capital meets purpose—tune in to discover and support the next wave of impact-driven innovation.SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we'll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.Join Dorian Dickinson, founder & CEO of FundingHope, for Startup.com's monthly crowdfunding workshop, where he'll dive into strategies for successfully raising capital through investment crowdfunding. June 24 at noon Eastern.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Tamara: My ability to listen to people and connect with people, understand what their needs are, and then really creating spaces and connections for them to get those needs met.When life feels overwhelming, many of us long for a helping hand. Tamara Lucas, the founder and CEO of My Panda, has turned that universal feeling into a business that's transforming lives and communities. My Panda, short for “Personal Assistant Next Door App,” connects people with trusted, hyper-local assistants—called Pandas—who can handle everything from grocery runs to household chores.“What we need is community,” Tamara said during today's episode. “What we need is people to turn to that we trust to be able to ask for the help that we need and also an opportunity for people to provide assistance and help.”Unlike gig-economy platforms like TaskRabbit or Uber, My Panda emphasizes community, trust, and mutual support. Tasks submitted through the app are matched with Pandas in the user's local area, fostering a sense of connection and accountability. “You're a lot less likely to steal someone's grandmother's jewelry if you're going to run into them at Publix,” Tamara joked.The business model is as innovative as it is impactful. Users pay a flat hourly rate for services, with membership options that offer discounts and additional perks. Pandas, who are independent contractors, are primarily women—just like the users they assist. This creates what Tamara describes as “a culture of women helping women,” which has become a hallmark of My Panda.Tamara is also leveraging community to fund her vision. Through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder, anyone can invest in My Panda, starting with as little as $100. “By doing crowdfunding, not only are we raising the capital that we need to grow,” she explained, “but we're also giving people a sense of ownership and deepening relationships within the community.”As My Panda prepares to expand beyond Atlanta to new markets like Charlottesville, Virginia, Tamara's vision of creating a modern-day village is gaining momentum. Her approach is about more than convenience—it's about rebuilding the connections we've lost in today's fast-paced, individualistic world.My Panda isn't just a service; it's a movement. It's a reminder that we're better together, and with the right tools, we can create a community that lifts everyone up.tl;dr:My Panda connects people with hyper-local assistants to provide trusted help for daily tasks.The app fosters community by hiring local Pandas and creating a culture of mutual support.My Panda's business model includes flat hourly rates, memberships, and perks for users.Tamara's superpower is empathy, helping her identify and act on others' needs.The company is raising capital via a WeFunder crowdfunding campaign to support its expansion.How to Develop Empathy and Connection As a SuperpowerTamara Lucas's superpower is her ability to deeply listen, empathize, and connect with others. “My biggest superpower is my ability to listen to people and connect with people, understand what their needs are, and then really creating spaces and connections for them to get those needs met,” she explained in today's episode. Tamara's background in psychology and social work has informed her approach, but it's her natural ability to engage and understand people that has been the foundation of her success.One day, a conversation with a friend sparked the idea for My Panda. Tamara's friend, a dog walker, shared her frustration: “I go into people's homes, and they need so much more than just a dog walk.” That moment of connection inspired Tamara to envision a platform where people could easily ask for—and get—the help they need. My Panda was born from her ability to listen, empathize, and act on the needs of others.To develop this superpower, Tamara's advice is straightforward yet profound:Practice Active Listening: Stop rehearsing your response in your head and focus entirely on what the other person is saying.Cultivate Empathy: Try to understand the emotions and experiences behind someone's words.Think Creatively About Support: Look for ways you—and your community—can offer help and share resources.Embrace Connection: Remember that humans are meant to live in community, not in isolation.By following Tamara's example and advice, you can make empathy and connection a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileTamara V Lucas (she/her):CEO & Founder, My PandaAbout My Panda: My Panda (Personal Assistant Next Door App) is a tech-enabled, community-powered platform that connects people with trusted, local assistants, called Pandas - to help with everyday personal tasks. From laundry and errands to organizing and event support, we make it easy to delegate the never-ending to-do list. Our mission is to help individuals, especially women and working parents, reduce stress, reclaim time, and feel more supported, both at home and in life in general. My Panda offers services directly to consumers and also partners with companies to provide assistant hours as a unique employee benefit that supports work-life balance and mental wellness.Website: mypandaapp.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/bookapandaOther URL: wefunder.com/my.pandaBiographical Information: Tamara Lucas is the founder and CEO of My Panda (The Personal Assistant Next Door App), a tech-enabled, community-powered platform that connects people with trusted local assistants for everyday personal tasks. A single mother and lifelong advocate for women and their families, Tamara created My Panda out of her own experience with the constant pressure and exhaustion of balancing career, home, and caregiving responsibilities.Her career spans over 30 years across social work, education, wine sales, and business management, all of which shaped her deep understanding of the support systems people need to thrive. With My Panda, Tamara is redefining productivity by making it easier - and more acceptable - for people to ask for help. Through her leadership, the company is helping to alleviate stress, build community, and create flexible economic opportunities, especially for women. She is passionate about shifting societal expectations and building solutions that promote wellness, connection, and a more sustainable way to live.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/tamara-vrooman-lucas-094a089Instagram Handle: @mypandaappSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, RedLineSafety, Kingscrowd and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on June 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, June 18, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Jason Fishman, Co-Founder and CEO of Digital Niche Agency (DNA), will lead a session on "How to Spin $1 of Advertising into $10!" He'll reveal proven strategies and marketing insights drawn from years of experience helping successful crowdfunding campaigns. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or a supporter of innovative startups, you'll gain actionable tips to boost visibility, drive engagement, and hit your funding goals. Don't miss it!Superpowers for Good Live Pitch – June 25, 2025, at 8:00 PM Eastern - Apply for free by June 6, 2025, to pitch your active Regulation Crowdfunding campaign live on Superpowers for Good—the e360tv show where impact meets capital. No fee if selected! Selected founders will gain national exposure, connect with investors, and compete for prizes. To qualify, you must be raising via a FINRA-registered portal or broker-dealer and align with NC3's Community Capital Principles. Founders from underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to apply. Don't miss this chance to fuel your mission and grow your impact!SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we'll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Steve: Intellectual curiosity, paired with a problem-solving mindset.Media shapes perception, and perception shapes reality. That simple truth drives Steve Jones, Founder and CEO of pocstock, to challenge the way people of color and other underrepresented groups are portrayed in stock photography and now artificial intelligence.Steve launched pocstock after discovering, while running a digital marketing agency, that major stock photo libraries lacked images reflecting diverse identities. "People of Black, Asian, Hispanic and other backgrounds, people who were older than 50, or living with a disability" were all underrepresented, Steve said. This gap was not unique to the U.S. — it was global.Today, pocstock is meeting a bigger challenge: the biases baked into AI image generation. Because AI was trained on biased media libraries, "the data is literally what the AI industry needs in order to become what it's going to be," Steve explained. With AI expected to generate 80% of online imagery soon, pocstock's culturally accurate, bias-free library positions the company as a vital resource for the future of ethical AI.But Steve isn't stopping with just providing imagery. He's ensuring that the creators of these visuals—photographers and artists—can share in the value AI creates. "We created a model where our creators can be included in the AI boom," he said, highlighting pocstock's mission to avoid leaving behind the very people it seeks to represent.As part of that effort, pocstock is raising capital again, this time through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder. By setting a minimum investment of just $250, Steve and his team are inviting everyone—not just venture capitalists or accredited investors—to participate. "This gives people an opportunity to access AI through pocstock," he said.The implications are profound. "Imagery is how you change people's perceptions of people they haven't met," Steve noted. The consistent underrepresentation or stereotyping of certain groups impacts real-world outcomes, from law enforcement to healthcare. "If you let the media tell it, everybody's racist... and this couldn't be further from the truth."Supporting pocstock, whether by investing or using its imagery, helps rewrite those narratives. Steve's work stands as a reminder that inclusion isn't just a value—it's a strategy for both equity and innovation.To invest, visit wefunder.com/pocstock or s4g.biz/poc.tl;dr:Steve Jones founded pocstock to address the lack of diverse, accurate imagery in media and technology.pocstock's inclusive content is now powering major AI projects and helping to reduce bias in technology.The company is raising capital through regulated investment crowdfunding, inviting everyone to invest for impact.Steve's superpower is intellectual curiosity, which drives him to solve problems and connect across differences.Listeners are encouraged to embrace curiosity, meet new people and invest in more inclusive representation.How to Develop Intellectual Curiosity As a SuperpowerSteve Jones's superpower is intellectual curiosity, paired with a problem-solving mindset. He explained, “I've always looked to see how I can make the world the way I think it should be.” This constant questioning of the status quo fuels his drive to address social injustices, foster inclusion, and solve challenges in innovative ways. From tinkering with objects as a child to reshaping the media landscape with pocstock, Steve's curiosity and creative thinking guide his efforts to make a positive impact.Steve shared a story about a chance encounter that changed his career trajectory. While working in IT, he bonded with a coworker over a shared love of Batman and Dr. Dre. Despite their differences—Steve, a 6'5” Black man, and his coworker, a middle-aged Irish man—they became close friends. Years later, that friendship resulted in Steve receiving his biggest contract for his marketing agency. This anecdote highlights how Steve's openness and curiosity about others help him build meaningful connections and seize new opportunities.Tips for Developing Intellectual Curiosity:Seek to understand problems deeply and envision how they could be solved.Challenge preconceptions by engaging with people from different backgrounds and perspectives.Be open to learning from everyone you meet, both professionally and personally.Approach each day with a fresh mindset, ready to embrace new challenges and opportunities.Stay informed about trends and developments in your field to spark new ideas.By following Steve's example and advice, you can make intellectual curiosity a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileSteve Jones (he/him):Founder & CEO, pocstockAbout pocstock: pocstock is a global content company that creates, curates, and licenses stock images featuring people of color to businesses for marketing, advertising, and artificial intelligence. We partner with businesses of all sizes to ensure they have the right images, insights, and data to be inclusive of everyone.Website: pocstock.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/pocstockOther URL: wefunder.com/pocstockBiographical Information: Steve Jones is a serial entrepreneur with a background in tech, marketing, and creative.He's currently the Founder & CEO of pocstock, a global content company headquarteredin Newark specializing in inclusive content for marketing, advertising, and artificialintelligence.Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/pocstockInstagram Handle: @pocstockSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, RedLineSafety, Ovanova PET, and Kingscrowd. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on June 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, June 18, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Jason Fishman, Co-Founder and CEO of Digital Niche Agency (DNA), will lead a session on "Crowdfund Like a Pro: Insider Marketing Secrets from Jason Fishman." He'll reveal proven strategies and marketing insights drawn from years of experience helping successful crowdfunding campaigns. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or a supporter of innovative startups, you'll gain actionable tips to boost visibility, drive engagement, and hit your funding goals. Don't miss it!Superpowers for Good Live Pitch – June 25, 2025, at 8:00 PM Eastern - Apply by June 6, 2025, to pitch your active Regulation Crowdfunding campaign live on Superpowers for Good—the e360tv show where impact meets capital. Selected founders will gain national exposure, connect with investors, and compete for prizes. To qualify, you must be raising via a FINRA-registered portal or broker-dealer and align with NC3's Community Capital Principles. Founders from underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to apply. Don't miss this chance to fuel your mission and grow your impact!SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we'll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Sona: Resilience—the unwavering determination to overcome obstacles and solve critical problems.Every year, millions of people in low-income countries suffer due to a lack of access to basic medical technology. Sona Shah, CEO and co-founder of Neopenda, is tackling this challenge head-on with an innovative solution—a wearable vital signs monitor called Neoguard. This simple yet powerful device is already saving lives in sub-Saharan Africa and has the potential to make a global impact.Neoguard is a headband-style device that monitors four key vital signs: pulse rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and temperature. The data is transmitted wirelessly via Bluetooth to a centralized dashboard on a tablet, allowing clinicians to monitor multiple patients simultaneously. “The intent of this product,” Sona explained, “is really to alert clinicians in really overcrowded, understaffed hospitals that something could be wrong with the patient so that our clinicians can provide more timely and appropriate care to the patients that need it most.”What makes Neoguard even more remarkable is that it was specifically designed for low-resource settings. Sona shared how she and her team traveled to Uganda during the early days of Neopenda to understand the unique challenges faced by hospitals in such environments. “We saw hospitals that didn't have any functioning medical equipment. They had rooms that nurses called the ‘equipment graveyard,' just mounds of broken equipment,” she said. This inspired her to create technology that is resilient and tailored to these conditions, addressing issues like power instability and limited connectivity.Beyond its life-saving potential, Neoguard represents a significant business opportunity. With a $3.4 billion market for vital signs monitoring across Africa alone, Neopenda is poised for growth. The company has already launched in over 45 hospitals, primarily in Kenya, and is generating revenue. To scale further, Neopenda is raising capital through a regulated crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder, allowing anyone to invest with as little as $100. “What better way to scale than involve the community in our efforts?” Sona said, emphasizing the value of democratizing access to investment opportunities.Neopenda is more than just a company—it's a movement to bring equitable healthcare to underserved populations while offering investors a chance to make both an impact and a profit. Sona's story is proof that innovation and compassion can go hand in hand to create a better world.tl;dr:Neopenda creates affordable medical technology like Neoguard, a wearable vital signs monitor saving lives.Sona Shah's passion for equitable healthcare drives her innovative solutions for underserved populations.Neoguard is designed for low-resource settings, addressing challenges like power instability and broken equipment.Neopenda is raising capital via a WeFunder crowdfunding campaign, democratizing investment opportunities.Sona's resilience and vision have propelled Neopenda's growth, proving impact and profit can coexist.How to Develop Resilience As a SuperpowerSona Shah's superpower is resilience—the unwavering determination to overcome obstacles and solve critical problems. She described it as the ability to “move mountains” when faced with challenges. Sona's resilience stems from her passion for addressing inequities in healthcare. “If there's something that I'm really passionate about, I will move mountains to figure out how to make it work,” she said. This mindset has enabled her to navigate the complexities of developing medical devices, securing funding, and building a sustainable business model in underserved markets.Illustrative Story:One of Sona's most challenging moments came during the early stages of Neopenda's journey when she and her team had to establish a manufacturing process—something completely outside their expertise. Through determination and by hiring the right talent, they overcame this obstacle. Later, when funding became tight, Sona's resilience drove her to find creative solutions, ensuring that Neopenda stayed on track. Another pivotal moment came in 2023 when the company pivoted from a distributor-led sales model to selling directly to hospitals, a risky but ultimately successful decision that significantly boosted their growth.Tips for Developing Resilience:Find a Problem Worth Solving: Focus on a mission that ignites your passion and commitment.Surround Yourself with Support: Build a network of people who care about you and your cause.Invest in Self-Care: Prioritize your mental health to maintain your capacity to lead effectively.Embrace Feedback: Learn from mistakes and be open to constructive criticism.Stay Persistent: Don't let setbacks deter you; keep moving forward with determination.By following Sona Shah's example and advice, you can make resilience a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileSona Shah (she/her):CEO & Co-founder, NeopendaAbout Neopenda: Neopenda is a healthtech company designing wearable medical technology for under-resourced hospitals in emerging markets. Our flagship product, neoGuard, is a CE-marked, patented vital signs monitor built specifically for environments with limited infrastructure. It tracks four critical vitals, pulse, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and temperature, without requiring stable electricity or internet. Already in use across 45+ hospitals in five African countries, neoGuard has delivered over 35,000 hours of patient monitoring, helping healthcare workers detect early signs of distress and intervene before it's too late. Headquartered in Chicago and operating globally, Neopenda's mission is to close the healthcare access gap with scalable, context-appropriate innovation.Behind every device we build is a story, of a nurse who stayed calm because an alert came in time, of a baby who went home safely, of a health system that finally had the right tool for the job. We didn't set out to build technology for the sake of it. We set out to build trust, dignity, and access where it's been missing for too long. Because where you're born shouldn't determine whether you survive.Website: neopenda.comX/Twitter Handle: @neopenda_healthCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/NeopendaOther URL: wefunder.com/neopendaBiographical Information: Sona Shah is the CEO and Co-founder of Neopenda, a healthtech company bringing life-saving innovation to underserved health systems.Her journey began while teaching in Kenya, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges facing under-resourced hospitals. That experience shaped her lifelong commitment to global health equity and continues to inform how she leads today, with empathy, purpose, and persistence.With a background in biomedical and chemical engineering, Sona has spent the past decade designing and scaling technologies that work in real-world clinical settings across East and West Africa. Under her leadership, Neopenda has developed and commercialized neoGuard, a CE-marked wearable vital signs monitor tailored to the needs of low-resource hospitals. The company has sold to over 45 hospitals, delivered more than 40,000 hours of neonatal monitoring, and launched local manufacturing in Kenya.Sona is a graduate of Columbia University and Georgia Institute of Technology. Amongst other accolades, she's been recognized as an MIT Solve Fellow, Inc 30 under 30 recipient, a UN Women prize recipient, White House invitee, and a global leader in maternal and newborn health. Her work lives at the intersection of innovation, equity, and impact, and is driven by a deep belief that everyone, everywhere deserves access to quality care.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/sonarshahSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Ovanova PET and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on June 17, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, June 18, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Jason Fishman, Co-Founder and CEO of Digital Niche Agency (DNA), will lead a session on "Crowdfund Like a Pro: Insider Marketing Secrets from Jason Fishman." He'll reveal proven strategies and marketing insights drawn from years of experience helping successful crowdfunding campaigns. Whether you're a founder planning a raise or a supporter of innovative startups, you'll gain actionable tips to boost visibility, drive engagement, and hit your funding goals. Don't miss it!Superpowers for Good Live Pitch – June 25, 2025, at 8:00 PM Eastern - Apply by June 6, 2025, to pitch your active Regulation Crowdfunding campaign live on Superpowers for Good—the e360tv show where impact meets capital. Selected founders will gain national exposure, connect with investors, and compete for prizes. To qualify, you must be raising via a FINRA-registered portal or broker-dealer and align with NC3's Community Capital Principles. Founders from underrepresented communities are especially encouraged to apply. Don't miss this chance to fuel your mission and grow your impact!SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we'll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.African Diaspora Investment Symposium 2025 (ADIS25), Wednesday–Friday, May 28–30, 2025, at George Washington University, Washington, D.C., USA.Devin Thorpe is featured in a free virtual masterclass series hosted by Irina Portnova titled Break Free, Elevate Your Money Mindset & Call In Overflow, focused on transforming your relationship with money through personal stories and practical insights. June 8-21, 2025.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
In this episode of Finding Fearless, Madeline Reeves sits down with Marcia Dawood, author, TEDx Speaker, podcast host, and early-stage investor. Together they explore Marcia's mission to transform angel investing from an exclusive club into an accessible pathway for everyday people to fund innovation and create positive change.Key themes include:Marcia's journey from corporate finance to passionate advocate for investment democratizationThe untapped potential of platforms like Wefunder, Republic, and StartEngineBuilding a personal investment thesis that aligns with your valuesThe critical importance of community and collaboration in angel investingHow equity crowdfunding is reshaping who gets to be an investor00:00 Introduction to Finding Fearless00:37 Meet Marcia Dawood: Author, Speaker, and Investor01:09 Democratizing Angel Investing01:28 FreshBooks: The Accounting Solution02:20 Marcia's Journey into Angel Investing05:32 Understanding Angel Investing07:58 Equity Crowdfunding Explained12:52 Building a Personal Investment Thesis19:29 The Power of Community in Angel Investing22:36 Show Her the Money: The Documentary24:10 A Great Cause and Personal Involvement24:59 Introducing Relay Financial25:48 Challenges and Systemic Issues in Female Funding30:08 Encouraging Audacity and Confidence33:13 Angel Investing Demystified37:51 Resources and Recommendations for Aspiring Investors39:33 Final Thoughts and Calls to ActionConnect & Learn MoreHere's how you can engage with Marcia's work:Website: www.marciadawood.comInstagramConnect with Fearless Foundry:Fearless FoundryMadeline ReevesFinding Fearless is an exploration of human-centric leadership and a celebration of ambition, releasing every other week on Wednesdays, 6AM PST. If you liked the show, please rate, review, and share! You can also visit our website to learn more about how to become a sponsor of Finding Fearless! Finding Fearless is produced by Fearless Foundry, a creative consultancy focused on advancing ambitious humans from around the globe to amplify their impact through branding, marketing, and business development. You can contact us at hello@fearlessfoundry.com if you are interested in our services and can follow us on all social media @fearlessfoundry. Season 4 music is by Premium Beats. All audio is recorded and owned by Fearless Foundry.
Black Spending, Black Savings, Black Power - Prof' Kimya's Class!On "Get On Code", Professor Kimya Nuru Dennis joins Seko Varner to unpack **Black Spending Power** and introduce the concept of **Black Savings**. They argue that consistent savings and building internal **economic resources** are more impactful than short-term boycotts. The discussion critically examines **DEI** initiatives, suggesting they often serve as distractions or marketing rather than providing tangible benefits for Black people. The focus is on real **wealth building** strategies and outcomes beyond surface-level trends. Discover strategies for **Black Economic Empowerment**! #BlackEconomics #DEI #WealthBuilding #FinancialLiteracy #GetOnCode.Interested in sponsoring the channel? Email OurBlackImprovement@gmail.com. $20k - $90K of business funding - https://mbcapitalsolutions.com/positive-vibes-consulting/ Money for your business: https://davidallencapital.com/equipment-financing?u=&u=PositiveVibes Money for Real Estate Investments: https://PositiveVibesFinancial.com Purify yourself, house, and environment to remain safe: https://www.vollara.com/PositiveVibes Invest in stocks via STASH: https://get.stashinvest.com/sekosq72j Fix your credit: https://positivevibes.myecon.net/my-credit-system/ Raise money with Republic: https://republic.com/raise/i/jpdajr Raise money with WeFunder: https://wefunder.com/sekovarner/raise #GetOnCode #GetOnCodeShow #GetOnCodePodcast #TheFlyGuysShow #OmegaPsiPhi #Ques #Uplift #ConsciousCommunity #PanAfrican #FoundationalBlackAmerican #Indian #BlackIndian #Melanin #Indigenous #BIPOC #CopperColored #Moorish #B1 #FBA #ADOS #BlackAmerican #AfricanAmerican #Investment #WealthMoney, Melanin, Finance, Business, Black Business, B1, Black First, ADOS, Foundational Black American, African, Indigenous, Afro Latinx, Afro-Latino, Mechie X, Tariq Nasheed, Professor Black Truth, The Black Authority, America, Africa, Asiatic, Moorish, Moorish Science Temple, FOI, Christian, Noble Drew Ali, Malcolm X, Ebony, African American, Entrepreneur, #GetOnCode, Tone Talks, Crumb TV, Afrisynergy News, Black People, Nubian, Empowerment Agenda, Black Wall Street, Black Empowerment, Empowerment, Get On Code
In this episode of the Startup CPG Podcast, Grace Kennedy chats with Morgan Murdock, the founder of Unbothered Foods—a gut-friendly, sourdough-based cracker brand launched in 2023. Morgan, a clinical dietitian turned CPG entrepreneur, shares her journey from working with IBS patients to creating a delicious, low FODMAP cracker that prioritizes both taste and digestive health.They dive into everything from navigating product formulation and scaling production to finding the right co-manufacturer and managing fermentation at scale. Morgan also opens up about fundraising via WeFunder, the challenges of being a solo founder, and the importance of mentorship in building a mission-driven food brand.If you're a CPG founder, health-conscious foodie, or just love a good cracker, you won't want to miss this one. Tune in now!Use code STARTUPCPG at checkout for 15% off any cracker product!Listen in as they share about:Unbothered Foods OverviewWhy Crackers?The Sourdough AdvantageScaling & Manufacturing JourneyRetail & Distribution StrategyFunding & BootstrappingSolo Founder LifeMentorship & Community SupportEpisode Links:Website: https://unbotheredfoods.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganjmurdock/ Don't forget to leave a five-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify if you enjoyed this episode. For potential sponsorship opportunities or to join the Startup CPG community, visit http://www.startupcpg.com.Show Links:Transcripts of each episode are available on the Transistor platform that hosts our podcast here (click on the episode and toggle to “Transcript” at the top)Join the Startup CPG Slack community (20K+ members and growing!)Follow @startupcpgVisit host Daniel's Linkedin Questions or comments about the episode? Email Daniel at podcast@startupcpg.comEpisode music by Super Fantastics
This week we are doing an 'Ask Us Anything' where no topic is off-limits. Any questions you have, list them LIVE in the chat and we will answer them on the spot. If you're lucky, we may actually even bring you on to share your story and brand!Also, Alex Bayer is an expert and has an agency specializing in crowdfunding consulting, so if you're thinking of raising capital online via Wefunder or Start Engine, he can walk you through it!This episode is sponsored by Philosopher Foods and their Wefunder campaign is live at http://www.wefunder.com/philosopherfoods
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, AppleTV or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow!Devin: What is your superpower?Sal: I don't quit.Bringing value to patients is the foundation for profitability. That's the guiding principle behind Pivotal Health, which is reinventing healthcare delivery by bringing medical care directly to patients' homes, dorms or offices. It's not just convenient—it's a better way to care.Sal Braico, Co-Founder and CEO of Pivotal Health, explained in today's episode how the company is reviving the once-common practice of house calls using technology and a physician-led team of experienced nurse practitioners and physician assistants. “We are improving [access] by bringing the house call back,” Sal said. “We're leveraging tech to bring the house call back.”The results speak for themselves. By avoiding long wait times and exposure to illnesses in urgent care or emergency rooms, patients receive focused, uninterrupted attention from providers. This personalized care environment also allows patients to open up about mental health issues that might otherwise go unaddressed.Sal shared, “One of the things that we've seen is that oftentimes patients are able to bring up issues about mental health because they're more comfortable in their own house.” That comfort leads to better outcomes, deeper care and a more trusting relationship between provider and patient.It's not just a feel-good story. Pivotal Health is scaling rapidly by delivering real value. From just one employer partner a year ago to now serving over 45 companies and more than 3,000 employees, the company's direct care model is gaining traction.“If we're able to always do the best thing for the patient, then the money and the profits, they will come,” Sal emphasized.Pivotal Health is currently raising funds via a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder. As Sal explained, patients themselves sparked the idea by asking how they could invest. Now they can.Visit wefunder.com/pivotalhealth or use the shortcut s4g.biz/Pivotal to learn more. Funds from the campaign will help expand the service from three metro areas in Wisconsin to more cities across the country.Today's episode shows that innovation often means returning to ideas that once worked well. With Pivotal Health, Sal and his team are proving that house calls, enhanced by technology, can transform modern healthcare. And thanks to crowdfunding, the very people who benefit most can help power its growth.tl;dr:Sal Braico is using technology to revive house calls, making healthcare more personal and accessible.Pivotal Health uses nurse practitioners and physician assistants to deliver efficient, high-quality care.Personalized visits in comfortable environments help patients discuss mental health and receive better overall care.Sal demonstrates how impact and profitability align, with strong growth driven by patient and employer value.A Wefunder campaign enables patients and supporters to invest in expanding Pivotal Health's innovative model.How to Develop Relentless Persistence As a SuperpowerSal Braico says his superpower is simple: "I don't quit." In today's episode, Sal, the CEO and Co-Founder of Pivotal Health, shared how an unwavering determination has carried him and his team through countless challenges."It doesn't matter what the problem is, what the issue is. I just don't quit," Sal said. Inspired by his immigrant parents, who modeled tireless dedication to work without complaint, he developed a mindset rooted in grit and consistency. "They just put their heads down, and they just worked," Sal explained. "That's what they showed me."One vivid example of Sal's persistence came when Change Health, Pivotal Health's primary claims processor, was hacked. Payments stopped. Claims couldn't be submitted. The company faced a crisis. Cash flow dried up, and making payroll became difficult. But quitting was never an option. “We just didn't quit,” he said. Sal communicated openly with his team, secured a little more time, and eventually stabilized the business. The incident led to a key pivot away from insurance, helping the company emerge stronger.Sal offered several insights for building this kind of resilience:Keep a level mindset. Things are never as bad—or as good—as they seem.Take care of physical health. Fitness builds stamina to endure tough times.Protect mental health. Use tools like therapy or meditation to maintain perspective.Avoid emotional overreaction. Emotional regulation helps sustain long-term focus and energy.By following Sal's example and advice, you can make persistence a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileSal Braico (he/him):Co-Founder and CEO, Pivotal HealthAbout Pivotal Health: Pivotal Health, headquartered in Madison, WI, is revolutionizing access to healthcare. We've completed over 16,000 house call visits in multiple Midwest metro areas since 2021, proving our commitment to accessible, patient-centered care. Our tech-enabled platform empowers clinicians to deliver urgent and primary care wherever you need it – home, work, or beyond. We're also breaking down barriers with our Direct Care model, offering affordable, transparent healthcare without the limitations of insurance.Website: pivotalhealth.careCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/yourpivotalhealthOther URL: wefunder.com/pivotalhealthBiographical Information: Sal Braico is a seasoned healthcare entrepreneur with over 22 years of experience building and scaling successful companies across the industry. His diverse background spans the spectrum of healthcare, from drug and medical device development to pharmacy and healthcare information technology, culminating in his current venture, Pivotal Health. Notably, Sal founded Flex Biomedical, a medical device company that developed a groundbreaking osteoarthritis treatment, later licensed to a major orthopedic firm. He also was the Chief Operating Officer of Mallatt's Pharmacy and Home Healthcare, transforming it into one of the Midwest's largest independent pharmacy companies before its acquisition by Walgreen's and Guardian Pharmacy.X/Twitter Handle: @salbraicoLinkedin: linkedin.com/in/sal-braicoInstagram Handle: @pivotalhealthcareSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Make Money with Impact Crowdfunding, SuperCrowdLA and Crowdfunding Made Simple. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.SuperCrowdLA: we're going to be live in Santa Monica, California, May 1-3. Plan to join us for a major, in-person event focused on scaling impact. Sponsored by Digital Niche Agency, ProActive Real Estate and others. This will be a can't-miss event. Has your business been impacted by the recent fires? Apply now for a chance to receive one of 10 free tickets to SuperCrowdLA on May 2nd and 3rd and gain the tools to rebuild and grow! Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on May 20, 2025, at 1:00 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowd25, August 21st and 22nd: This two-day virtual event is an annual tradition but with big upgrades for 2025! We'll be streaming live across the web and on TV via e360tv. Soon, we'll open a process for nominating speakers. Check back!Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Igniting Community Capital to Build Outdoor Recreation Communities, Crowdfund Better, Thursdays, March 20 & 27, April 3 & 10, 2025, at 1:00 PM ET.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Call for community action:Please show your support for a tax credit for investments made via Regulation Crowdfunding, benefiting both the investors and the small businesses that receive the investments. Learn more here.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Taboo to Truth: Unapologetic Conversations About Sexuality in Midlife
Who says turning 65 means giving up amazing sex and settling for solitude? Just because you don't have a husband or kids doesn't mean life has to be dull—if anything, it means you're free to live exactly how you want.In this episode, I sit down with Cindy Gallop, a trailblazing entrepreneur, advertising consultant, and founder of MakeLoveNotPorn, to challenge outdated beliefs about aging, sex, and relationships. Cindy's fearless approach to life proves that getting older isn't about slowing down—it's about embracing what you truly want.We dive into why she chooses to date younger men, why marriage and kids were never part of her plan, and how we can all redefine intimacy, confidence, and pleasure as we age. Plus, Cindy shares how MakeLoveNotPorn is changing the conversation around real-world sex and helping people feel seen, accepted, and empowered. She also dives deep into how MakeLoveNotPorn differs from OnlyFans, the unique challenges they face—especially the uphill battle of advertising bans on social media.It's time to step into a world where sex is shame-free, open, and truly fulfilling. Let's dive in!Timestamps:(00:00) Introduction to Cindy Gallop(01:09) No husband, no kids: Ultimate self-care routine (02:27) Dating younger men—casually, unapologetically, and on her own terms(02:32) The problem with society's lack of role models for aging women(03:07) Body image, menopause, and post-menopausal pride(03:52) Why she proudly shouts her age (65!) and the power of #SayYourAge(04:19) MakeLoveNotPorn: The platform changing how we talk about real-world sex(05:27) The lube: Why there's no such thing as “too much”(06:36) Cindy on finding the confidence to date younger men(07:14) The glaring double standard: Older men vs. older women in dating(08:47) Cindy's revelation: Being every young guy's fantasy(09:25) The rise of niche dating sites—and how to find the right one for you(13:29) What MakeLoveNotPorn celebrates(14:39) How MakeLoveNotPorn stands apart from ethical porn(16:56) The Social Sex Revolution: Why we need to talk about real sex(19:40) OnlyFans vs. MakeLoveNotPorn: The key differences(21:15) Challenges in Promoting MakeLoveNotPorn: Censorship, stigma, and funding struggles(23:30) What makes someone sexy? (24:40) Join and subscribe to MakeLoveNotPorn and Wefunder campaign (25:52) Cindy's definition of sexKaren Bigman, a Sexual Health Alliance Certified Sex Educator, Life, and Menopause Coach, tackles the often-taboo subject of sexuality with a straightforward and candid approach. We explore the intricacies of sex during perimenopause, post-menopause, and andropause, offering insights and support for all those experiencing these transformative phases.This podcast is not intended to give medical advice. Karen Bigman is not a medical professional. For any medical questions or issues, please visit your licensed medical provider.Looking for some fresh perspective on sex in midlife? You can find me here:Email: karen@taboototruth.comWebsite: https://www.taboototruth.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taboototruthYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@taboototruthpodcastAbout the Guest:Cindy Gallop is a trailblazing entrepreneur, advertising
Timekeeping and billing have long been pain points for lawyers, but today's guest, Adrian Parlow, is working to change that. As the co-founder and CEO of PointOne, he's leveraging AI to automate time tracking and bill review, helping law firms capture more revenue while reducing administrative burdens. Adrian's path to legal tech began in startup law. After beginning his career at Fenwick & West, he transitioned to the business side as general counsel at Wefunder, an online crowdfunding platform for startups. That experience sparked his interest in innovation and led him to launch PointOne, where he and his team are helping firms rethink their approach to timekeeping and billing in the AI era. Adrian joins us to talk about tackling the challenge of timekeeping, his journey from lawyer to entrepreneur, how PointOne is transforming billing practices, and why legal organizations are re-evaluating their stance on AI and innovation. Read the full transcript of today's episode here: https://www.seyfarth.com/dir_docs/podcast_transcripts/Pioneers_Adrian_Parlow.pdf
Alex Wright-Gladstein was one of the first people I interviewed when I launched Invested in Climate nearly 3 years ago. Our conversation has stuck in my mind over the years as her company, Sphere, offers one of the most impactful actions individuals can take to address climate change. The action is really simple: Moving our savings out of fossil fuel companies. In the United States, fossil fuels are included by default in retirement savings accounts. If you have a 401(k), IRA, or pension, you are almost certainly supporting the fossil fuel industry. And we're not talking about chump change: About 20% of the fossil fuel market cap is derived from 401(k)s and IRA investments. Sphere makes it easy for people and companies to move retirement savings away from fossil fuels. They're currently raising money through a WeFunder crowdfunding campaign, so I thought it was a perfect time to catch up with Alex and hear about Sphere's progress. Full disclosure: I'm a Sphere investor and soon-to-be customer, but I should say clearly - nothing in this episode should be considered investment advice and is just for informational purposes. I hope this conversation pushes your thinking in a helpful way. Enjoy.On today's episode, we cover:[00:58] Introduction to Alex Wright-Gladstein and Sphere[02:35] The origin of Sphere and the problem they're solving[05:00] Details about the Sphere 500 Climate Fund[06:28] Discussion of investment impact and fossil fuel investments[09:17] Navigating 401(k) regulations and lawsuits[13:44] Impact of political administrations on climate investing[19:37] Ways people can invest with Sphere[25:23] Strategies for pressuring companies to offer sustainable 401(k)s[29:57] Challenges faced by Sphere, including market volatility and ESG backlash[33:35] Vision for the future of climate-friendly investingResources MentionedSphereSphere 500 Climate FundInfluenceMapThe Virtual March to Retire Big OilWeFunder: Invest in SphereConnect with Alex Wright-GladsteinOn LinkedInConnect with Jason RissmanOn LinkedInKeep up with Invested In ClimateSign up for our NewsletterLinkedInInstagramBlueskyHave feedback or ideas for future episodes, events, or partnerships?Get in touch!
Join us for an enlightening conversation with Marcia Dawood, an experienced angel investor who shares her transformative journey from being unaware of the investment world to becoming a passionate advocate for angel investing, especially for women. Listen in as Marcia demystifies the concept of angel investing, which involves using personal, after-tax dollars to invest in private companies. With the rise of equity crowdfunding platforms like Republic, Wefunder, and StartEngine, this once-exclusive realm is now more accessible than ever. Marcia breaks down common misconceptions about needing immense wealth or connections to participate, encouraging listeners to develop a focused investment strategy based on their interests and goals. We explore the empowering potential of angel investing, particularly for women entrepreneurs who are often underrepresented in receiving funding. The conversation highlights the need for more women in decision-making roles to support female-led ventures, particularly in areas like women's healthcare. Marcia emphasizes the importance of aligning investments with personal values and recognizing the potential in alternative assets like angel investing. Her journey into this field, along with her efforts to raise awareness through public speaking and writing, serve as an inspiring call to action for listeners to consider this impactful form of investing. Connect with Marcia:Website: www.marciadawood.com Facebook: Marcia Rick Dawood Instagram: @marciadawood LinkedIn: Marcia Dawood Let's keep the conversation going!Website: martaspirk.com Instagram: @martaspirk Facebook: Marta Spirk Want to be my next guest on The Empowered Woman Podcast?Apply here: www.martaspirk.com/podcastguest Watch my TEDx talk: http://bit.ly/martatedx Ready to go from financial stress to financial thriving? At Money Essentials for Women, we provide coaching and resources to help you achieve your biggest financial goals with ease — whether it's early retirement, debt payoff, homeownership, career growth, or more. Learn more and set up a free consultation with one of our expert coaches today: https://www.money-essentials.com Planning for your legacy should be empowering. That's why we've partnered with Tim Gorman, Author of Tangled Legacy: Turning Estate Planning Mistakes Into Successes, your essential guide to building wealth and securing your family's future. Invest in your legacy. Learn more about workshops, classes and 1:1 coaching at https://dgrealtyadvisors.com/