Founder's Story

Nina Ythier, after 20 years working inside broken systems, turned rejection into redirection—founding MindSpeak Inc., a therapy practice redefining mental health care through real-world, person-first solutions. In this episode, she shares the power of creative healing, why ego-free hustle matters, and how nontraditional care is changing lives. Key Discussion Points: Why “graduating” from toxic workplaces led to building something better Starting with just a few clients—and a side job at Planet Fitness Building a therapy brand rooted in creativity, not conformity How Nina uses yoga, art, and community as tools for healing Industry backlash: what happened when she challenged the system What Gen Z’s loneliness says about our cultural crisis The future of therapy: tech, touch, and psilocybin Redefining success in mental health care—one Dunkin’ chat at a time Takeaways: Your style is your brand—especially in human-first work Building a mission-driven business starts with betting on yourself Therapy doesn’t belong in beige boxes—meet people where they are True change comes from trust, presence, and showing up without ego Closing Thoughts:Nina Ythier is proving that therapy doesn't have to follow the rules to work. By stepping outside the office and into real life, she's helping clients heal through connection, creativity, and courage—reminding us that the most powerful breakthroughs often happen far beyond the couch. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sam Chipkin, after nearly a decade in the high-stress world of New York finance, moved to Bondi Beach and rewired his approach to investing. In this episode, he shares how quiet mornings, long walks, and deep research shaped his investment strategy—and why 5AM Capital is betting on patient capital, enduring businesses, and disciplined risk. Key Discussion Points: Leaving Wall Street: Why chaos isn’t required to create value Building a boutique fund that caps growth at $750M The power of investing in monopolistic businesses with durable moats Why the best investors act like long-term owners, not traders Founder vs. hired CEO mindset—and how it affects outcomes How stress and stillness each played a role in shaping his success What most people get wrong about investing returns The underestimated mental load of wearing every hat as a founder Takeaways: Slower, focused growth often outlasts fast, flashy scale The best investments are deeply researched, not broadly scattered Building something meaningful requires clarity, conviction, and capacity to think long-term Culture and alignment are assets—don’t outgrow them Closing Thoughts:Sam Chipkin proves that high returns don’t require chaos. With a boutique, conviction-driven strategy and a firm belief in doing fewer things better, he’s showing why simplicity and discipline are the ultimate edge in business and investing. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kass and Mike Lazerow peel back the curtain on life—and love—as co-founders of multiple breakout ventures. From the early days of building Golf.com to scaling Buddy Media into a $700 million+ Salesforce acquisition, they share the grit, the joy and the “shoveling shit” mentality behind every pivot and payoff. Key Discussion Points: Why “Shoveling Shit”?: The visceral truth of entrepreneurship—every success is paid for in messy, daily hard work. Business + Marriage = Love Story: How dating, co-founding and parenting three kids forged their partnership both in and out of the boardroom. Co-founder Chemistry: Choosing non-overlapping skill sets, setting clear expectations, and having tough conversations early to survive the rough patches. The High-Profile Exit: Celebrating a $700 million sale to Salesforce—and the mixed emotions, burnout and newfound freedom that followed. Who’s an Entrepreneur?: Everyone—from the corner pizza shop owner to the solo‐founder—can embrace the entrepreneurial spirit if they’re willing to shovel shit. Risk, Debt & Scale: Why wanting nothing (minimal burn) + smart leverage of debt + relentless focus on execution define the winners. Takeaways: Real success demands loving the daily grind—embrace the mess, don’t fear it. A co-founder relationship is your most critical asset—invest in alignment on values, work ethic and communication. Money changes the game but doesn’t guarantee happiness; use your windfall to fuel purpose and impact. Everyone can be a founder at their own scale—but only those who master risk tolerance and ruthless prioritization will thrive. Closing Thoughts: Kass and Mike Lazerow prove that the world’s greatest companies—and relationships—are built one shovel of shit at a time. Tune in to find out how they turned daily disasters into billion-dollar exits, and why the love of the hustle is the ultimate driver of both profit and purpose. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jorge Martinez and Andre Vinay, co-founders of Black Development Group, join Founder’s Story to reveal how they’ve reimagined hospitality by turning apartments into branded hotel-style residences. With a growing partnership with Wyndham, they’re building global investment-friendly resorts in places like Tulum, Los Cabos, and Punta Cana—offering individuals a new way to own a piece of paradise. Key Discussion Points From Hot Dogs to Hotels: How Andre began as a teen entrepreneur The Condo-Hotel Model: Why selling individual units funds entire resort builds Strategic Partnerships: How Wyndham helped them go global Ownership, Not Headaches: Giving investors turnkey properties without the hassle Scaling Across Borders: Why Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic are next Lean Hotel Ops: How tech and outsourcing reduce overhead and boost profit Defining Success: Why they believe they're still just getting started Key Takeaways Partnership beats competition when scaling fast A profitable hotel doesn’t need a front desk—just a smart system You can own a slice of a global resort without building from scratch Innovation often lies in blending business models, not reinventing them Our Sponsors: * Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY * Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com * Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com * Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sally So, founder and CEO of Genomii.ai, joins Founder’s Story to share how her lifelong battle with eczema sparked a breakthrough: your health isn’t just in your genes—it’s in your data. Sally reveals how she’s building a digital twin for every human, one that can track your biological age in real-time and coach you back to youth.Key Discussion PointsFrom Suffering to Science: How chronic illness led Sally to build GenomiiThe Digital Twin Era: What it means to have an AI version of yourself in your pocketBiological Age Tracking: Why you might age 0.6 or 1.6 days overnightThe Longevity Movement: How Genomii is gamifying health and reversing agingStress, Sleep & Biomarkers: What really causes you to age fasterAI, Human Emotion & the Future of Connection: How Genomii balances tech with humanityGamified Wellness: Why the future of health might look like DuolingoBuilding a $10B Vision: Sally’s plans to scale, IPO, and live 100+ yearsKey TakeawaysEvery action you take could be aging—or reversing—your biological clockAI-powered personalization will soon outperform generalized healthcareEmotional and social connection remain essential to longevityWellness apps of the future will feel more like companions than toolsClosing ThoughtsSally So isn’t just building a health app—she’s engineering a future where your phone knows your body better than your doctor. If you’ve ever wondered how long you’ll live—or how young you can stay—this is your episode.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alex Monahan, Stanford engineer turned sports betting entrepreneur, joins Founder's Story to reveal how he bootstrapped OddsJam—dubbed the Bloomberg Terminal for Sports Betting—to a $160 million exit. From obsessing over data to outworking every competitor, Alex shares the gritty journey from side hustle to acquisition, the power of YouTube for growth, and why he’s still not done building. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to win in a high-stakes, high-growth niche—this is the playbook.Key Discussion PointsThe Obsession That Sparked a Startup: Why Alex's love for data, poker, and probability planted the seed for OddsJam.From Reddit to Revenue: How early Reddit posts and $6 subscriptions helped them land their first customers.The $20K MRR YouTube Days: Why DIY content outperformed influencers—and how one video changed the game.The Math Behind the Millions: How understanding sports betting odds led to a product users couldn’t find anywhere else.Exit Without Burnout: Why selling didn’t change his life—and how growing slowly kept him grounded.Building a Data Moat: How they acquired their data provider and outpaced competitors with speed and accuracy.Founder Lessons in Focus: Why juggling multiple startups never works—and why you need to outwork everyone.Key TakeawaysDon’t build for hype—build what you wish existed.Your edge is what you obsess over when no one’s watching.Distribution is a weapon—master YouTube, Twitter, and content that teaches.Staying focused beats being flashy—especially when billion-dollar markets are on the line.Closing ThoughtsOddsJam wasn’t built on luck. It was built on obsession, precision, and the relentless grind of a founder who knew where his edge was—and ran with it. Whether you’re launching your first business or gunning for your own exit, Alex’s journey is a reminder: master your niche, own your platform, and never stop betting on yourself.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Arjen de Jong, an aerospace engineer and founder of AirTulip, joins Founder’s Story to share how clean-room tech, fluid mechanics, and a little smoke visualization led to a Shark Tank pitch—and a consumer sleep product unlike anything else on the market.From clean air in dentist offices to hydrogen water-style traction for your bedroom, Arjen walks us through how laminar airflow can drastically improve health, reduce allergies, and even reinvent how we think about air.Key Discussion PointsClean Room to Clean Sleep: How a cigarette in a laminar flow booth sparked the product ideaPivoting Post-COVID: Why dentistry was the real product-market fit before sleepShark Tank Secrets: The casting line, the 30-minute pitch, and walking away from an offerVisualizing Air: How lasers and wind tunnels helped explain an invisible productConsumer Trust vs. Engineering Genius: Why educating the market is the hardest partScaling a Physical Product: The difference between B2B machinery and consumer DTCLong-Term Vision: From side hustle to orbiting planet—Arjen’s exponential success roadmapKey TakeawaysThink Laterally: The best innovations come from cross-industry application of existing techEducate First, Sell Second: Customers need to believe the invisible before buyingPersonal Experience Sells: Real stories of health improvement drive conversionCommunity = Credibility: DTC success hinges on trust, repetition, and consistencyDon’t Just Launch—Prepare for the Surge: Shark Tank is a spotlight, not the finish lineClosing ThoughtsAirTulip isn’t just another sleep gadget—it’s a physics-first approach to rethinking how we breathe. Dr. Arjen de Jong’s journey proves that the smartest solutions aren’t always the loudest. Tune in to learn how engineering curiosity, strategic pivots, and real-world validation turned laminar airflow into a movement.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Yash (the "Water Genie") and Smile (an Ironman athlete) co-founded Dr. Water to solve what they call the world’s most overlooked health crisis: dehydration. With backgrounds in sustainability and performance science, the duo reveals how hydrogen water can transform energy, recovery, and aging—while also cutting plastic waste. They share the journey from building DTC wellness brands to going viral on TikTok and pitching billionaires via cold emails.Key Discussion PointsThe Spark of a Problem: Why 75% of Americans are dehydrated—and what that does to your body.From Ironman to Founder: How Smile’s training journey revealed major hydration myths.Hydrogen 101: The science behind hydrogen water, molecular research, and anti-aging benefits.Design Meets Wellness: Creating the first modern hydrogen tumbler with UV filtration.Go-to-Market Playbook: Why social selling (TikTok, Meta) beat Amazon for this brand—and how they got their first billionaire buyer.Founders Who Fit: Why this co-founder duo works—9 years of history, clarity of roles, and shared obsession.Educating a Market: Using MMA athletes, NFL doctors, and real stories to take hydrogen water mainstream.Key TakeawaysWater is Wellness: You can’t absorb supplements, recover well, or think clearly without proper hydration.Science Backed, Lifestyle Led: Products need to heal and be something people love showing off.Social is the New Shelf: Founder-led brands that educate and entertain will win on TikTok and YouTube.Complementary Founders Scale Faster: Visionary + executor beats any solo genius.Hydration is the First Habit: If you fix water, you unlock the foundation for every other wellness behavior.Closing ThoughtsFrom battling microplastics to unlocking cellular energy, Dr. Water isn’t just a hydration brand—it’s a movement. Tune in to learn how two first-time founders went from global agriculture and Ironman races to building a multi-country wellness company that just might reshape the water industry from the inside out.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sanjay Chadha, co-founder of SAV Associates, brings over 25 years of global experience in corporate finance, cybersecurity, and risk management. From navigating boardrooms in Vietnam and Madagascar to safeguarding data in North America, Sanjay has advised more than 1,000 clients on building resilient, profitable companies. In this episode, he reveals the costly mistakes most founders make—plus how to prevent a deepfake disaster from taking down your business.Key Discussion PointsWhy He Left Corporate Life: The spark that pushed Sanjay to leave Big Four consulting and build a global advisory firm.Global Lessons from 7 Countries: What living and working across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East taught him about scaling internationally.How to Think Like a CFO: The most overlooked financial mistakes—and why founders must read the story behind their numbers.Cybersecurity & Deepfakes: Why AI is a blessing and a bombshell—and how one email nearly tricked his entire firm.Risk is the New Currency: Why protecting data matters more than profits in today’s tech-driven landscape.Cash Burn ≠ Growth: The trap of fast-spending founders and the secret to building companies that last.Key TakeawaysStartups don’t fail from bad ideas—they fail from poor financial fluency.If you can’t read your numbers, you can’t write your success story.Cyber risk isn’t optional anymore—one deepfake could cost your company everything.Global mindset, local agility: Scaling safely starts with structure, not size.Every number tells a story—and your CFO should know how to read it.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kit Gray, President and Co-Founder of PodcastOne (NASDAQ: PODC), reveals how he parlayed childhood radio fandom into a thriving public podcast network. From early iPod hacks with Adam Carolla to structuring live reads, community-first ad packages, and an IPO, Kit shares the timing, tactics, and tenacity behind PodcastOne’s $51M revenue and its 200-show roster.Key Discussion PointsRadio Roots & Howard Stern: How listening to sports talk and Stern’s brand-building ignited Kit’s love for audio.Selling the Download: Early deals with Adam Carolla (ProFlowers, LegalZoom) that proved CPMs & CPA tracking worked.Building a Network: Moving from one-off ad reads to 360° packages—audio, video, social—for A&E, Lady Gang, Jordan Harbinger, and more.Timing the Tides: Why the iPhone, COVID lockdowns, and YouTube’s podcast push turbocharged growth.Going Public: Lessons (and flip-flops) on spinning out, partnering with bankers, and using equity to align talent.Community over Impressions: Why buying engaged audiences beats mass buy, and how brands scale with niche pods.Key TakeawaysBe first, but stay fast: Early movers in on-demand audio captured both talent and advertisers.Proof precedes scale: Start with one host, one campaign; use hard ROI data to win bigger deals.Sell the community, not just ad slots: True influence lies in loyalty, not lowest CPM.Equity aligns interests: Offering stock to creators fosters retention and shared upside.Adapt or fade away: From iPods to social streams to IPO filings, continual reinvention is non-negotiable.Closing Thoughts Dive into how Kit Gray built a soup-to-nuts podcast empire—signing singers turned podcasters, structuring ad-stacked communities, and trading on NASDAQ—and walk away with a playbook for finding, owning, and monetizing the next great audio audience.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alessandro Figliano, Founder & CEO of Jet 365, shares how he turned a love for flying into a luxury aviation brand trusted by F1 and high-net-worth clients. From flying school to building a white-glove charter service, Alessandro breaks down how Jet 365 blends safety, personalization, and tech into an experience the new generation of elite travelers demands, while maintaining the service standards legacy brands lost.Key Discussion PointsPilot to Founder: How Alessandro funded a flying school through his first business, then transitioned from hobbyist to charter operator.Seeing the Gap: Why a fragmented broker space inspired Jet 365’s concierge model—tailored for both tech-savvy users and traditional luxury clients.F1-Level Partnerships: How a personal network led to Jet 365 becoming the aviation provider for a Formula One team.Luxury that Listens: The power of referrals, retention, and saying yes—even when a plane breaks down hours before takeoff.High-Touch Meets High-Tech: How Jet 365 is building a new platform to serve both automated and white-glove clientele.Custom Over Scale: Why Alessandro rejects fast growth in favor of sustainable, service-first expansion.Key TakeawaysSolve before you scale: High-end clients don’t care about volume—they care about flawless delivery.White-glove wins: Luxury is less about cost and more about care. Every detail matters.Two types of clients, one standard: Whether booking online or via a concierge, the experience must exceed expectations.Build in public (quietly): Real partnerships and growth happen behind the scenes, not on Instagram.Sustainability > speed: Growth that protects service levels will outlast shortcuts every time.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

David Royce, a serial entrepreneur (Aptive Environmental) recounts his journey from a broke college door-to-door rookie to scaling a pest-control startup into a $500 million national leader—and why he’s now taking a well-earned sabbatical.Key Discussion PointsThe Rookie Summer: How a disastrous first week of door-to-door sales prompted David’s self-education marathon in sales books.Systems Over Spark: Building replicable training, manuals, and processes that delivered 2× results and launched him into leadership.Scaling Pains: Why hyper-growth nearly bankrupted his first venture and how he raised capital to keep pace.Leveling Up: Swapping his original exec team for seasoned billion-dollar operators to navigate the jump from regional to national scale.Entrepreneurial Highs & Lows: The dopamine rush of the early years, the burnout of success, and the intentional one-year pause to rediscover purpose.Investor IQ: Why proven operators attract funding, and the difference between a slick pitch deck and a battle-tested team.Sabbatical Mindset: Lessons on stepping back, letting others lead, and treating entrepreneurship like a lifelong sport you can pause and replay.Key TakeawaysMaster your craft first: hands-on experience de-risks your startup journey.Build playbooks, not personalities: systems scale; individuals stall.Growth capital is a double-edged sword—raise just enough to stay nimble.Only the paranoid survive: swap in fresh talent as your needs evolve.Sabbaticals can reboot your passion—sometimes stepping off the gas is the smartest move.Closing Thoughts Tune in to learn how David Royce became an accidental CEO, why he sold his own dream once (and why he’ll do it again), and how even the fastest-growing entrepreneurs need time off to stay in the game.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Matt Raad (CEO & Co‑Founder of eBusiness Institute) shares how he and his wife, Liz Raad, went from farming and zoology students to buying, scaling, and exiting online businesses. Learn why “page‑five” passion sites can be goldmines, how AI accelerates growth, and the blueprint for low‑risk, high‑cash‑flow digital entrepreneurship.Key Discussion PointsFrom Kangaroos to Cashflow: How Matt & Liz leveraged rural roots and early manufacturing M&A mistakes to discover online’s superior risk‑return profile.Valuing Digital Assets: Why net profit × 1–5× multiples, recurring revenue, traffic quality, and audience/community strength are your core due diligence metrics.Finding Diamonds in the Rough: Hunting bargains via Flippa classifieds and private outreach to page‑5+ Google sites—plus the art of negotiating with cash and escrow.com.Build, Automate, Flip: Renovate niche blogs with SEO, monetization (ads, affiliates, sponsorships), and AI‑assisted content editing to boost profits.Scaling with AI: How ChatGPT, Claude & Gemini are slashing team sizes, turbocharging site builds (ten‑minute bootcamp wins!,) and cutting content costs.Exit‑Ready Growth: Why hitting 7‑figure ARR unlocks private‑equity interest, and how leadership + repeatable processes maximize your sale multiple.Key TakeawaysStart Small, Win Big: Learn website building, buy a sub‑$5K site, and experiment with AI—no big capital required.Audience Is Asset: Communities trump page‑one rankings; loyal followings drive recurring, scalable revenue.Due Diligence Matters: Practice on low‑risk deals, use escrow for safe transfers, and know threshold profit multiples.Niche Is King: Passionate micro‑niches host undervalued sites ripe for 10× upside with the right know‑how.Exit Strategy: Buyers buy growth potential and proven teams—build with scalability and clear leadership in mind.Closing ThoughtsReady to quit the nine‑to‑five grind? Tune in to discover a battle‑tested playbook for buying, scaling, and exiting online businesses with Matt & Liz—plus actionable steps to launch your own digital side hustle.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Alfonso Gurreri, A Harvard-educated lawyer turned hands-on entrepreneur, founded RICI Contracting in 2022 and has since grown it into a full-service powerhouse. Today, RICI delivers construction, asphalt paving, snow & property maintenance, waste management, and facility services across Ontario. Alfonso shares how he parlayed legal training into strategic vision, weathered early food-truck misfires, and now innovates a once-old-school industry with sustainability, operational excellence, and client-first focus.Key Discussion Points:Law Meets Hard Hats: How a top-tier legal education taught Alfonso discipline, risk assessment, and negotiation skills he now applies to multimillion-dollar contracting bids.Early Failures to Firm Foundations: The food-truck chapter that taught him to test market fit, manage debt serviceability, and pivot swiftly into construction.Building RICI’s Service Portfolio: The step-by-step playbook for adding roll-off trucks, portable toilets, paving rigs, and snow-plow fleets—each driven by recurring revenue needs.Ideally Niche Clients: Why focusing on property managers, REITs, and pension-fund portfolios ensures monthly billing reliability and repeat business.Innovation & Sustainability: How Alfonso is modernizing a legacy sector through advanced equipment, AI-powered fleet surveillance, and eco-minded operational upgrades.Scaling with Discipline: His criteria for debt-financed expansion, in-house versus subcontractor work, and turning low-risk jobs into entry points for higher-ticket contracts.Key Takeaways:Strategic Pivoting: Embrace early failures as fast-feedback loops that uncover scalable opportunities.Debt Serviceability Test: Only invest in capital assets when your recurring cash-flows can safely cover the payments.Client Lifetime Value: Lock in high-margin, recurring services for the same ideal customers rather than chasing one-off gigs.Operational Excellence: Leverage technology, standardize processes, and build sustainability into every service offering.Closing Thoughts:Alfonso Gurreri’s journey from articling desks to asphalt crews illustrates that true entrepreneurial grit lies in mastering finance-savvy expansion and relentless client focus. Tune in to discover how RICI Contracting is redefining Canadian facility services—one strategically financed roll-off bin at a time.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

After engineering stints and an immigrant-family push toward a PhD, Brian Le accidentally fell into entrepreneurship, first by noticing Bird scooters on campus, then by solving students’ last-minute snack and supply crises with app-powered micro-convenience. A Y Combinator alum, Brian tells how COVID tested Need’s model, why blind ambition is a superpower in your twenties, and how he sees college (and AI) shaping the next generation of founders.Key Discussion PointsEngineering Roots → Accidental Startup: How Bird scooters at UCLA sparked a “Why not?” moment.YC Crash Course: The plunge from no-name founders into the world’s top accelerator—and why every twenty-something should consider it.Pandemic Pivot: When campus shutdowns zeroed out revenue, why doubling down on your mission becomes your strongest play.Pitching 101: The art of “selling” your startup: story-driven conviction and painting a vivid vision five-to-ten years out.College’s True Value: It isn’t just classes—it’s community, hands-on experiments, and leadership labs for budding founders.AI as a Tool, Not a Threat: Why aspiring entrepreneurs should harness AI to supercharge impact, not replace human ingenuity.Key TakeawaysIgnorance Is Bliss: Youthful “delulu” ambition fuels moonshot ventures that grizzled veterans second-guess.Sell the Vision: A great pitch isn’t a slide deck—it’s an emotional story backed by unwavering conviction.Embrace Crisis: A downturn isn’t a dead end—it’s a moment to build your foundation and outpace slow movers.College = Sandbox: Beyond tuition, campus life offers accelerators, orgs, and friendships that forge real-world entrepreneurs.Check them out https://wefunder.com/needClosing Thoughts Brian Le’s journey proves that true founders are often “accidental”—ignited by frustration, honed by trial, and scaled by audacious positivity. Whether you’re racing a scooter or racing a market, the college decade remains the ultimate launchpad for ventures that dare to deliver.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Colin Walsh CEO & Co‑Founder of YayDay; CEO of P&G Specialty Beauty and Dr. Roshini Raj board‑certified gastroenterologist, Gut Renovation author, co‑founder of Tula & YayDay share how beauty meets biotech in a gut‑first wellness brand. They reveal why fiber + magnesium is only the start, and how gut health underpins sleep, mood, immunity—and even skin health.Key Discussion PointsRoots in Beauty & Medicine: How Roshini’s probiotic skincare journey at Tula and Colin’s 20‑year beauty career sparked a gut‑health collaboration.Gut Microbiome 101: What exactly lives in your gut, why its balance matters for everything from digestion to mood, and how fiber (prebiotics), beneficial bacteria (probiotics), and postbiotics play their part.YayDay’s “Triple Play”: The science behind their prebiotic fiber blend, digestive enzymes and sleep‑boosting magnesium glycinate—why it works where Metamucil and melatonin fall short.Brand with a Cause: Reinventing embarrassing “health” routines into a joyful, results‑driven ritual—how great packaging, expert science and rapid, tangible benefits build trust in a crowded wellness market.Marketing & Growth: Lessons from Procter & Gamble on creating proven efficacy, growing word‑of‑mouth, and earning “trust capital” through real customer results.Exit Strategies: What acquirers really buy (growth potential + leadership) and why thoughtful timing—and full clarity on post‑exit roles—matters for founders.Key TakeawaysYour gut is its own “organ”—its microbes influence sleep, skin, mood and immunity.Simple rituals win: combining prebiotic fiber + enzymes + magnesium delivers near‑instant sleep and digestion benefits.Brand trust is built on proven results, expert endorsement and joyful, approachable design.Marketing health means sampling broadly, showcasing real reviews and earning attention over time.Whether you build or sell, acquirers want teams who can scale the brand far beyond today’s footprint.Closing ThoughtsTune in to learn how two industry legends turned an awkward health topic into YayDay’s delightful daily ritual—plus practical tips on gut wellness, branding in a noisy market, and creating exit‑worthy growth.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Korosh Farazad traded a UK law career for two decades of pioneering structured finance in hospitality real estate. Today, his Farazad Advisory specializes in value-add hotel acquisitions—85–200 rooms, no global brands, 3–5-year hold—in gateway cities across North America and Western Europe. From SLS Dubai to a sudden Swiss relocation, Korosh reveals the deal architecture, market pivots, and hard-won lessons behind his boutique empire.Key Discussion Points:The Spark: How a people-person’s obsession with behind-the-scenes hotel value drove Korosh from courtroom to keys.Deal DNA: Why only sub-200-room, unbranded hotels qualify, and how minority stakes plus franchise tie-ins deliver 1.8–3× returns.“SLS Dubai” Benchmark: The guest-experience blueprint that turns check-in into a 24-hour mousetrap of F&B and nightlife options.Market Pivot: Exiting a cooling UK scene, relocating to Switzerland in five weeks, and sealing first Swiss deals in record time.Architects of Upside: Balancing debt-serviceability and in-house expertise to self-power roll-off trucks, paving rigs, and franchise roll-outs.Failure → Fuel: Why every crash taught him more than success, and how relentless iteration builds the confident dealmaker.Key Takeaways:Start Small, Crawl First: Deeply master every back-and-front-of-house nuance before running.Value-Add Over Core: Seek the “unfinished canvas” hotels that reward hands-on branding and operational revamps.Crystal-Clear Criteria: 85–200 rooms • no legacy brand • three-to-five-year hold • gateway city tourist flow.Speed to Market: Quick pivots (e.g., Switzerland in five weeks) beat protracted, high-cost transformations.Closing Thoughts:Korosh Farazad’s journey reminds us that hospitality deals aren’t hotel-chain clones but stories begging to be rewritten. Tune in to discover how structured finance, guest-obsessed engineering, and bold market moves can redefine real estate success—one boutique acquisition at a time.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kuty Shalev shares how a college accounting grad became a pioneer of fully remote software consulting—25 years before “work from home” was a thing. He explains why speed, adaptability, and “soft skills” (EQ as deliberate practice) trump raw IQ in today’s agile, AI-driven world.Key Discussion Points:A Serendipitous StartFrom PwC-sponsored coding at Columbia to founding a lean software firm with Pricewaterhouse as Year-One client.Early adoption of Skype‐powered remote teams to solve developer shortages.Building a True Remote CultureLessons learned: codifying checklists, connectivity standards, and clear response SLAs.Hiring only those who thrive in remote settings—surfing from the beach, caring for family, or rural living.Soft Skills as a “Must-Have”Reframing EQ as a learnable “soft skill” through deliberate practice and gamified coaching.Engineers with high EQ excel at adapting to rapid change, cross-team collaboration, and maintaining motivation.Digital Transformation ReimaginedRejecting one-size-fits-all platforms in favor of modular, vendor-agnostic architectures. Rapid, low-risk proofs of concept that scale, saving time and budget.Remote model enables access to global talent, faster staffing (2–3 weeks), and reinvesting office savings in senior engineers.Speed & ResilienceSpeed as competitive advantage in a landscape where AI and new tools emerge daily.Overcoming early stumbles by showing up, iterating fast, and leveraging trust and feedback loops.Key Takeaways:Speed Wins: Rapid iteration and fast staffing trump slow, monolithic “big-bang” IT projects.EQ Matters: Soft skills can be learned; they unlock collaboration, resilience, and better outcomes.Remote Is a Strength: A 25-year remote track record proves that location-agnostic teams deliver quality, flexibility, and cost efficiency.Modularity Over Monoliths: Architect for choice—cloud providers, SaaS, and stacks—so you can pivot as technology evolves.Show Up Relentlessly: Consistent effort, forgiveness of failure, and learning from mistakes fuel long-term success.Closing Thoughts: Lueinalta’s journey shows that innovation isn’t just about tech—it’s about people, practices, and the courage to redefine work itself. By mastering speed, empathy, and modular design, founders can build resilient organizations ready for whatever comes next.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

April (“Waepril”) shares how battling teenage acne sparked her obsession with ingredient-led skincare and launched her Instagram career. From zero views in quarantine to brand partnerships and a new website, she reveals the mindset, strategies, and resilience needed to turn personal struggle into a thriving beauty business.Key Discussion Points:Origins of Her Passion:Teenage acne eroded April’s confidence, driving her to decode product labels and hunt active ingredients that truly work.Emphasis on teaching followers how to read ingredients rather than chase marketing claims.Authentic Community Growth:Early quarantine boredom turned into daily posting despite tiny view counts—passion kept her going.Advice for new creators: embrace originality, adapt trends into your own voice, and persist through slow growth.Monetization Pathways:As follower count climbs, brands seek her out for product launches and paid collaborations.Amazon affiliate links and TikTok/IG Shop as accessible entry points before launching a full e-commerce site.Content Differentiation:Stand out by infusing every reel with your personality and story, not just mimicking top trends.Trend hijacking vs. trend transformation: use popular formats as springboards for unique angles.Overcoming Personal Loss:A pause after her father’s passing led to renewed clarity and commitment—turning grief into motivation.Balancing vulnerability and positivity to build deeper audience trust.The Future of Social Commerce:Huge potential in live selling on TikTok, YouTube Commerce, and Amazon Live, especially for beauty demos.The importance of user-friendly affiliate programs for creators without bespoke websites.Key Takeaways:Ingredient Literacy Is Power: Teach your audience to look past branding and focus on actives that actually deliver.Passion Fuels Persistence: When growth stalls, genuine enthusiasm and a personal “why” will carry you forward.Authenticity Wins: Audiences connect with real stories and personalities more than polished, generic content.Accessible Monetization: Start with affiliate links and brand collaborations before scaling to full e-commerce.Closing Thoughts:April’s journey proves that turning personal pain into purpose can create a loyal, engaged community—and a viable business. By prioritizing ingredient expertise, authentic storytelling, and resilience, any creator can transform their passion into influence and income.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sheelam Chadha discusses her bold journey from two decades in corporate real estate to launching her own firm, Dry Capital, symbolically founded on International Women’s Day 2025. Driven by the desire to break the glass ceiling and leverage her extensive experience in the volatile European real estate market, Sheelam shares insights into navigating uncertainty, the importance of trust, and the power of strategic networking.Key Discussion Points:From Corporate to Founder:The motivation behind launching Dry Capital after encountering limitations in the traditional corporate structure.How Sheelam turned professional frustrations into entrepreneurial opportunity by creating a company aligned with her vision and values.Navigating Market Volatility:Insights on how major events—like Brexit, COVID-19, and recent interest rate hikes—have reshaped the European commercial real estate landscape.Why traditional bank financing is increasingly limited, and how Dry Capital provides alternative private capital solutions to help companies navigate prolonged market challenges.Challenges and Advice for Women Entrepreneurs:The barriers faced by women in traditionally male-dominated industries and how Sheelam overcame criticism by cultivating resilience and self-belief.Practical advice on why women should embrace risk, leverage supportive networks, and pursue their entrepreneurial visions without hesitation.Strategic Networking and Building Trust:How critical building and maintaining a professional network has been throughout Sheelam’s career.Advice for young professionals: proactively attend industry events, build genuine relationships, and cultivate trust that can last decades.Valuable Corporate Experience:How experiences during economic downturns and corporate restructuring periods provided Sheelam with invaluable insights and resilience.Why challenging times offer greater learning opportunities compared to periods of easy growth.Key Takeaways:Embracing discomfort and uncertainty can drive significant personal and professional growth.Genuine trust and integrity within professional relationships can be a key differentiator and asset throughout one's career.Courage, belief in oneself, and leveraging past corporate experiences can empower entrepreneurs to launch and scale their own businesses successfully.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Aaron Marcum spent over two decades in the home care industry before founding Breakaway365, a coaching program designed to help agency owners scale their businesses while reclaiming the time, energy, and freedom they’ve lost. In this episode, Aaron shares what inspired him to launch Breakaway365, how positive psychology transformed his approach to leadership, and what he's learned from coaching hundreds of overwhelmed home care entrepreneurs.Drawing on data from his previous venture, Home Care Pulse, Aaron explains how burnout, poor delegation, and always-on leadership are silently eroding the effectiveness of many agency owners. Through Breakaway365, he now empowers leaders to rethink how they build their businesses—with scalable systems, strong culture, and purpose-driven leadership at the core.Key Discussion Points:The Burnout Epidemic in Home Care Leadership:Aaron shares how most agency owners lose sight of their original vision due to constant stress and reactive leadership. Breakaway365 was created to help them "break away" from always being on and return to the freedom they set out to create.Positive Psychology Meets Entrepreneurship:Backed by a master’s degree in applied positive psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, Aaron explains how mindset shifts—like reframing setbacks as temporary—can radically transform business owners’ resilience and performance.Keeping Culture Framework:A proprietary model developed by Breakaway365 focused on retention and team growth.K.E.E.P. stands for Knowledge, Empowerment, Engagement, and Partnership.Emphasizes autonomy, relationships, and confidence as the “arc of growth” that drives team loyalty and performance.AI-Driven Purpose Matching:Aaron introduces a powerful tool Breakaway members use to help caregivers define their personal purpose, aligning it with the company’s mission—enhancing retention and employee engagement from day one.Three-Day Immersive to Three-Year Commitment:Breakaway365 starts with a transformational three-day event where owners define their Breakaway Blueprint—a roadmap tailored to what they truly want from their business. The program then continues for up to three years, offering tools, coaching, and AI-powered systems to build lasting success.Why This Matters:Home care is a mission-driven industry deeply impacted by leadership burnout and staff turnover.Breakaway365 is not just about growing revenue—it's about restoring joy and purpose to business ownership.Aaron’s approach is adaptable across industries, offering a blueprint for any founder looking to scale with sanity.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Yaroslav Lazor and Sergiy Korolov take us on their fascinating journey from passionate software engineers to innovative entrepreneurs at Railsware. They share how their love for building software evolved from personal passion into a thriving business, influencing multiple industries and countless lives. Railsware’s approach of treating every internal process as a product is central to their ability to innovate, scale, and continuously improve.Key Discussion Points:Origins & Inspiration:How their genuine passion for software as a transformative force inspired the founding of Railsware.Viewing software development as an exciting sport—endlessly challenging and infinitely rewarding.Product Mindset & Business Evolution:The philosophy of approaching every company function (legal, finance, recruitment) as a "product" to enhance efficiency and user experience.Balancing in-house product development with collaborative ventures to constantly engage with fresh ideas and challenges.Building & Scaling Successful Companies:Why early-stage entrepreneurs must juggle multiple roles, from visionary to executor.The critical importance of team-building, sharp decision-making, and scaling thoughtfully as the business grows.Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs:Embracing a "founder mode craziness," coupled with conscious decision-making, intuition, and deep domain knowledge.How luck, timing, persistence ("don't quit"), and managing your own psychology are underestimated yet critical factors in entrepreneurial success.The Impact of AI:AI’s role as a productivity booster rather than a complete replacement for creative roles such as writing, design, and software development.How AI fosters clearer articulation of ideas, better prototyping, and expanded creative possibilities.Key Takeaways:Passion and continuous learning fuel entrepreneurial longevity.Treating business processes as products helps create clarity and efficiency.Understanding timing, persistence, and adaptability is critical for sustained success.Leveraging AI effectively enhances human potential rather than replacing it.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder's Story, Raza Sheikh, Founder & CEO of Identable, explains how he distilled his own frustration with fragmented SEO, content, and social tools into Identable—“one platform, zero fragmentation.” Designed for businesses of every size, Identable combines AI-powered SEO, content creation, social scheduling, and lead capture into a single dashboard. Raza describes how his technologist roots and Antler VC experience revealed a universal pain point: marketing teams wasted hours wrestling with disconnected systems instead of crafting strategy.Key Discussion Points:Inspiration & Problem: Juggling multiple free AI utilities, legacy SEO tools, and agencies left teams burned out.Founder’s Path: Solving his own go-to-market struggles led to a platform that any entrepreneur can use.Core Features: Unified website optimization, AI-driven content generation, social posting, and real-time lead tracking.SEO Meets GSO: Integrating traditional backlink SEO with generative search optimization for structured, AI-aware content.AI’s Role: Speed and scale—using AI to handle repetitive tasks so humans can focus on strategy and creativity.Takeaways:Fragmented marketing stacks cost time and talent; consolidation boosts both productivity and results.Generative Search Optimization (GSO) is the next evolution of SEO—structure and semantics matter.AI tools amplify human insight but must be steered by clear strategy and intent.Closing Thoughts: Whether you run brick-and-mortar shops or digital agencies, Identable offers a streamlined, AI-powered path from content idea to customer capture—freeing teams to innovate rather than integrate.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shane Smith is a seasoned med spa entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience and the CEO of Upkeep Ventures—one of America’s fastest-growing aesthetic brands. With multiple Inc. 5000 awards and 1000%+ year-over-year growth, Shane has built a national business by making high-quality med spa services accessible to the customers most companies overlook.His fearless approach to scaling and commitment to affordability are changing the face of the industry.s a seasoned med spa entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience, responsible for building and leading some of the world’s top-performing spa and med spa companies, including multiple Inc. 5000-ranked businesses. As the CEO of Upkeep Ventures, Shane has scaled a national med spa brand focused on affordable, high-quality aesthetic services, driven by rapid growth, fearless strategy, and a commitment to serving customers others overlook.We dive into: – Why being too smart can hold you back as a founder– What Shane learned by shadowing elite CEOs– His no-fluff take on entrepreneurship and risk– Why doing what others won’t is the secret to growth– And how to scale a service business without losing your soul💻 Visit: https://www.upkeepmedspa.com🌐 More: https://www.upkeepventures.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Divakar Vijayasarathy is the founder of DVS, a global platform revolutionizing the accounting and business services industry with a presence in the USA, India, Singapore, and Dubai. A self-described Thought Capitalist, Divakar is also the author of 16 books on taxation and a globally respected strategist in scaling professional services. His mission? To help CPAs and small firms overcome fragmentation, eliminate fear, and scale toward global impact and freedom.💬 In This Episode:What if scaling your firm wasn’t just about better tools, but about completely rethinking your mindset?In this mind-expanding episode, Divakar breaks down the illusions that hold entrepreneurs back, especially in the professional services industry. From growing up in the slums of India to building a multi-country platform for CPAs, he shares how fear, perception, and discipline shape success.If you're a service-based founder, CPA, or anyone who feels stuck doing everything in your business, this episode is your wake-up call.🧠 Topics We Cover:What “Thought Capitalism” really means—and how it drives modern valueWhy most CPAs and service providers stay small (and how to escape it)The three-part transformation every founder must go through: mindset, vision, actionHow to turn a one-person firm into a $10M+ business through DVS’s growth modelThe truth about exits—and how DVS creates liquidity from day oneWhy scaling is less about hard skills and more about decluttering your roleThe hidden costs of fear in fragmented industriesWhy discipline + direction = inevitable success🔑 Key Quotes:“The accounting world isn’t playing to win—they’re playing not to lose.” “One plus one doesn’t equal two. It equals infinity.” “Success isn’t about effort—it’s about perception and discipline.”📍 Want to connect with Divakar? 🌐 www.onedvs.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Melody Wilding is a professor of human behavior at Hunter College, a licensed therapist, an executive coach, and the author of Managing Up. She was named one of Insider’s Most Innovative Career Coaches and has been praised by thought leaders like Daniel Pink. Through her research and coaching, Melody has helped thousands of high-achievers navigate the complex relationships and unspoken rules that define career success.💬 In This Episode:Melody Wilding joins Founder's Story to unpack the real reason many talented professionals get stuck in their careers—it’s not about skill, it’s about mastering the psychology of the people around you. From decoding power dynamics to influencing with integrity, Melody explains how to “manage up” to leaders, navigate workplace politics, and take ownership of your career trajectory.Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder or building your own business, this conversation is packed with actionable tools to help you lead, influence, and grow.🧠 Topics We Cover:Why your biggest workplace challenges aren’t technical—they’re psychologicalThe 10 Conversations that unlock influence, visibility, and career growthHow to master both your inner psychology and the psychology of othersThe difference between managing up at junior vs. senior levelsWhy avoiding workplace politics is a dangerous mistakeHow to communicate with different leadership styles and power personalitiesThe “ownership conversation” and how to act like a business owner in your jobHow small, strategic asks (aka “foot in the door” technique) create big changeHow to build internal visibility without being self-promotional💡 Key Quote:“Politics are going to happen whether you like it or not. If you opt out, you do so at your own peril.”📘 Grab the book → ManagingUp.com 🎁 Bonus templates & scripts included with sign-up!Connect with Melody: 🌐 ManagingUp.com 📚 Author of Managing UpOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this urgent and eye-opening episode of Founder's Story, Daniel sits down with Ricardo Amper, the CEO and Founder of Incode, the revolutionary identity verification platform trusted by Amazon, Citibank, and even U.S. elections.Ricardo reveals how deepfakes, AI fraud, and impersonation scams are rapidly increasing—and why the future of the internet depends on solving trust. From building a pre-Facebook social app to securing elections with facial biometrics, his journey is filled with unexpected pivots, high-stakes innovation, and global impact.If you've ever wondered how we’ll know who’s real in the AI era, this episode answers it.Topics Covered:Ricardo’s failed first startup and why timing matters more than you thinkThe near fraud that almost cost Incode a major dealWhy AI is breaking the internet—and how Incode is fixing itHow governments and Fortune 500s are using IncodeThe future of digital identity, trust, and agentic AIWhat Ricardo believes is the next frontier after facial recognitionHow identity fraud is impacting everyone from small businesses to democracy itselfGuest Info:Ricardo Amper Founder & CEO, Incode 🌐 https://incode.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this powerful episode of Founder's Story, we sit down with world-renowned plastic surgeon Dr. Osman Bashir Tahir—also known as Dr. OBT—whose aesthetic clinics span London, Dubai, and Lahore. From cleft surgeries to cutting-edge regenerative treatments, Dr. OBT reveals how he combines art and science to help people not just look better, but feel better, too.We talk about the true purpose of plastic surgery, the myths social media has fueled, and how a well-done procedure can transform more than just appearance—it can change someone’s entire life. Dr. OBT also dives into regenerative medicine, including fat transfer, salmon DNA facials, and exosome therapy, and how he’s pioneering a more natural, undetectable approach to aesthetics.Whether you're curious about the latest in aesthetic medicine or want to understand the emotional side of plastic surgery, this episode is honest, insightful, and inspiring.Topics Covered:How Dr. OBT got into plastic & aesthetic surgeryWhy blending art with surgery mattersThe problem with “overdone” faces and filler trendsThe right reasons people should get aesthetic proceduresWhat’s next in regenerative aestheticsThe truth about fat transfer, stem cells, and salmon sperm facialsHis views on confidence, wellness, and aging wellConnect with Dr. OBT:🌐 Website & Clinic Info📍 Locations: London | Dubai | Lahore📲 Follow on Instagram: @drobtOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

John Mattone is more than just the world’s #1 executive coach—he’s a trailblazer in leadership transformation. Globalgurus.org recognized him six times in seven years (2019–2025). John is the creator of the revolutionary Intelligent Leadership® (IL) framework. His work has impacted nearly 1 million individuals and thousands of organizations across 55 countries, earning him the trust of world leaders, Fortune 500 CEOs, and high-growth entrepreneurs.In This Episode:John Mattone joins Founder's Story to unpack the journey that led him from corporate trainer to one of the most respected executive coaches in the world. He shares deeply personal stories—like his transformative five sessions with Steve Jobs—and offers practical, heartfelt wisdom for leaders looking to unlock their full potential.This episode is about more than just leadership. It’s about legacy, soul work, and the commitment to becoming the best version of yourself—at home, at work, and beyond.We cover:The pivotal moment Steve Jobs reflected on his growth as a leader and fatherWhy John’s first book failed—and how it led to everything that came nextThe Intelligent Leadership® framework: what it is, how it works, and why it’s changing livesWhat most executive coaches get wrong (and how John does it differently)The one question every great leader must ask themselvesWhy the best leaders operate from heart, mind, and soul—not just ambitionJohn’s personal evolution, mentors, setbacks, and the calling that reshaped his lifeHow to build trust with high-performing executives and hold them accountableThe importance of giving back—and John’s powerful story of creating scholarships to honor his family legacyKey Quote:“Most people die without creating their masterpiece. My job is to help them build it before it’s too late.”Connect with John: 🌐 www.johnmattone.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Kyle Matthews shares how getting “cut” from a dream career in professional sports ultimately led him to founding the largest privately held commercial real estate brokerage firm in the U.S. With over 1,000 employees, 25 offices, and $66B in sales volume since 2015, his journey is a masterclass in grit, sacrifice, and long-game leadership.💡 Topics Covered:The moment football ended—and real estate beganFrom solo agent to building a $66B empireMental vs. financial freedom as a founderWhy “ignorance is bliss” was his best advantageHiring, scaling, and leading 1,000+ peopleHis obsession with mental toughness (and Kobe Bryant)Balancing CEO life with being a father of fourThe real cost of freedom no one talks aboutWhy his last name on the company raised the stakes🔥 Notable Quotes:"When I started, I thought I was just building a small boutique. It became a monster.""If I can do it, you can do it. It’s not brilliance—it’s mental toughness.""Freedom comes at a price. You might get financial freedom, but you’ll lose mental freedom first."📲 Follow Kyle Matthews:Instagram & X: @kylematthewsceoWebsite: Matthews.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today’s guest is Louis Bélanger-Martin, the visionary co-founder of DTI Software, the company that pioneered the in-flight entertainment systems we now take for granted. From the first flicker of a boring flight to Washington D.C., Louis saw an opportunity where others saw nothing and turned it into a multi-billion-dollar industry. His entrepreneurial journey didn’t stop at takeoff. Louis is also the founder of Groupe W Inc., a Canadian private equity firm that helps businesses scale globally with smart capital and real-world experience.In this episode, Louis shares:How a dull flight became the spark behind a global innovationWhat it takes to build a category-defining company over 8 long yearsThe biggest challenges and rewards of B2B enterprise sales to major airlinesHis transition from entrepreneur to investor—and why he rarely backs startupsThe one trait he looks for in every founder he fundsWhy clarity, simplicity, and knowing your audience are critical in a pitchHow Canadian private equity is evolving in 2025Louis also gives founders actionable insights on how to stand out in a crowded capital market and how to approach private equity with strategy, not just ambition.📩 Connect with Louis:Email: [email protected]: Louis Bélanger-MartinOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jared Probst, Founder & President, Rapid Axis, details his journey from working in his stepfather’s machine shop to founding Rapid Axis—a company that revolutionizes short-term manufacturing and component fabrication. Jared shares his experience overcoming early cash flow challenges, building a robust sales system, and prioritizing operational excellence. His insights on customer service, innovative lead generation, and sustainable growth offer invaluable lessons for entrepreneurs in manufacturing and beyond.Key Discussion Points:Roots & Inspiration:Transition from a family machine shop to a dynamic sales and leadership role.The vision behind Rapid Axis, born from firsthand industry experience.Overcoming Challenges:Navigating early financial hurdles and avoiding cash flow pitfalls.The importance of disciplined operations and responsive customer service.Growth & Innovation:Leveraging cold outreach and digital tools for lead generation.Scaling sustainably without debt through strategic planning and resource sharing.Takeaways:Precision, persistence, and a customer-first mindset are crucial for scaling.Operational excellence and innovative sales tactics drive sustainable growth.Jared’s journey highlights the power of transforming challenges into opportunities.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder's Story, host Daniel sits down with Dr. Mary C Hames to explore her remarkable journey into the pharma industry. Driven by personal experiences with epilepsy within her family, Dr. Hames founded BioLogic Pharma Solutions to address the volatility and challenges in pharma. By pioneering an innovative fractional medical team model and leveraging AI to enhance efficiency, she is reshaping how pharma and biotech companies navigate product launches and market fluctuations.Key Topics Covered:Inspiration & Personal Connection:Early family experiences with epilepsy sparked her passion for neurology and rare diseases.Industry Challenges:Tackling unpredictable product approvals and frequent team turnovers in pharma.Innovative Fractional Model:Introduction of a scalable, flexible fractional medical team to support companies during periods of flux.Leveraging AI & Emerging Technologies:Using AI to draft medical communications and summarize complex data, with human oversight to ensure accuracy and compliance.Advice for Aspiring Founders:Embracing a fearless “act as if you cannot fail” mindset to seize opportunities and address unmet needs in the industry.Action Steps:Connect & Learn More: Visit biologicpharmasolutions.com and connect with Dr. Hames on LinkedIn.Reflect: Consider how a flexible, multi-skilled team approach could enhance your business strategy.Final Takeaway:Dr. Mary C Hames’ insights blend personal passion with innovative business strategies, offering a compelling roadmap for success in a volatile industry. Her approach demonstrates the power of adaptability, decisive action, and the smart integration of technology in driving lasting impact.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Back by popular demand, Dr. Ivan Misner, founder and Chief Visionary Officer of BNI, returns to Founder's Story. Fresh from hanging out with Richard Branson on Necker Island and preparing for an adventure to Antarctica, Ivan shares incredible insights, personal anecdotes, and powerful business lessons. This interview was originally recorded live in 2021.Episode Highlights:How Ivan founded BNI in 1985 and scaled it to over 10,400 chapters globally, driving 11.5 million referrals and $16 billion in annual business for its members.The transformative "Brody Moment" that took BNI from 20 chapters to a worldwide network.His journey from humble beginnings and financial challenges to becoming a networking powerhouse.Insights into his latest book, Who’s In Your Room?, explore the profound impact of personal relationships and core values.Why successful businesses focus on mastering a few key activities rather than chasing multiple distractions.Networking strategies emphasize farming relationships instead of transactional hunting.Ivan’s revelation about being a “situational extrovert” and practical tips for introverts to succeed in networking.Techniques to overcome social anxiety and build authentic connections.The critical distinction between mere contacts and genuine connections.Ivan's proven "24-7-30" follow-up system for nurturing relationships.Leadership principles are centered around motivation and inspiration rather than management alone.Favorite wine recommendations from Ivan's impressive 1,600-bottle cellar.Creating harmony in life instead of chasing the elusive idea of perfect balance.Resources and Books Mentioned:IvanMisner.comBooks: Who’s in Your Room?, Networking Like a Pro, The World’s Best-Known Marketing SecretRecommended Reads: How to Work a Room by Susan RoAne, Endless Referrals by Bob BurgOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this inspiring episode of Founder’s Story, we sit down with self-made billionaire and serial entrepreneur Mike Paulus. From humble beginnings on a blueberry farm to founding multi-billion dollar companies like Adapar and Assurance IQ, Mike shares powerful insights into building businesses that last, navigating liquidity events, and why he still identifies as a gritty operator rather than a yacht-dwelling billionaire.What You’ll Learn:Why saying no early in your career can lead to massive opportunityThe underrated power of bootstrapping and how it sharpens your edgeHow to think like an investor—even as a founderThe future of lean teams, AI, and the one-person billion-dollar businessPractical advice for young professionals entering the workforce todayWhat it means to build with conviction and stay close to the customerQuotes to Remember:“I like to think of myself as the underdog, even now.”“Your customer is your real boss—not the VC.”“Put your investor hat on before you commit your time.”“Find a rocket ship. Don’t ask what seat. Just get on.”Follow Mike Paulus:💼 LinkedIn🌐 EncoreInvestment.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Gavin Whyte is a visionary leader with over a decade of expertise in artificial intelligence. Transitioning from a background in design and mathematics to becoming a pioneer in secure, private AI, Gavin has redefined what’s possible in enterprise technology. His journey, marked by roles as Deloitte Australia’s chief scientist and adjunct professor, underscores a relentless pursuit of innovation.HIS JOURNEYUnconventional Beginnings:Gavin’s story began in design, where his passion for aesthetics and creativity merged with a natural talent for mathematics. A pivotal shift led him to computer science, igniting his lifelong commitment to AI.Career Milestones:With significant stints at Deloitte Australia and as director of data science at KPMG, Gavin honed his skills in predictive analytics, neural networks, and deep learning. His academic and industry experience set the stage for founding Brew AI, where he now leads cutting-edge research and development.VISION & IMPACTAt Brew AI, Gavin is dedicated to building secure, private large language models that empower industries such as law, finance, and government. His work ensures data integrity while driving scalable innovation. By developing advanced AI solutions that reduce hallucinations and enhance predictive accuracy, Gavin is transforming how organizations harness data.INNOVATION & THE FUTURE OF AIGavin’s forward-thinking approach centers on integrating deep reasoning models and AI agents to create smarter, more efficient systems. His vision is to unlock the full potential of AI, enabling businesses to make better, faster decisions while safeguarding their intellectual property.CONNECTLearn more about Brew AI and explore Gavin’s transformative journey at brewai.com. Connect with Gavin on LinkedIn for further insights into the future of artificial intelligence.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Vedant Pradeep shares his journey into creating Reframe App, a neuroscience-based platform designed to help individuals reduce alcohol consumption and achieve peak human performance. Driven by his own struggles with OCD and unhealthy coping strategies, Vedant developed 10-minute daily lessons that empower users to rewire their mindsets and build sustainable, healthier habits.Key Discussion Points:Personal Journey & Inspiration:Vedant’s battle with OCD and alcohol as a coping mechanism led to the creation of Reframe.His passion for achieving peak human condition drives his mission to transform lives.Reframe App & Neuroscience-Based Approach:How 10-minute daily lessons help rewire thought patterns and promote mindful living.The impact of the platform has already helped over three million people reduce their alcohol consumption.Launch of Liquid Luck:Introduction of Liquid Luck, a new functional elixir designed to combat cravings and support healthier lifestyle choices.This innovative drink complements Reframe’s mission by offering a practical, daily solution for alcohol reduction.Takeaways:Embrace neuroscience-based strategies to create healthier habits and achieve peak performance.Reframe App offers a sustainable way to rewire your mindset with just 10 minutes a day.Liquid Luck is a groundbreaking addition, providing a functional beverage solution to combat alcohol cravings.Resource:Reframe App & Liquid Luck: JoinReframeApp.com/LiquidLuck-Functional-ElixirOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Paula A. Ferrada, MD, is a trailblazer trauma surgeon who has shattered barriers in a traditionally male-dominated field. Hailing from Colombia, her remarkable journey to becoming a leading surgeon in the U.S. exemplifies resilience, innovation, and unwavering determination. Her groundbreaking work redefines trauma care and paves the way for future generations of women in medicine.HER JOURNEY: FROM HUMBLE BEGINNINGS TO THE OREarly Life & Inspiration:Born in Colombia, where her nurse mother and surgeon father introduced her to medicine at a very young age.“Surgery picked me,” she recalls, having witnessed deliveries and surgeries as a child.Path to the U.S.:Moved to the United States to train at renowned institutions such as Emory, Grady Memorial, and eventually Harvard—becoming the first Colombian woman to graduate from a Harvard surgery program.Further honed her skills through fellowships in Pittsburgh, Maryland’s Shock Trauma center, and over a decade of practice at Virginia Commonwealth University.BREAKING BARRIERS & LEADING WITH EMPATHYOvercoming Challenges: Latina physicians represent only 6.3% of the U.S. physician pool, with Latina female physicians making up less than 2.4%. Dr. Ferrada’s achievements speak volumes about perseverance in a challenging field.Leadership Style: Believes in vulnerability, teamwork, and creating a culture where every team member feels empowered to speak up.Asserts that true leadership in trauma is about trusting your team and maintaining a patient-centered focus, even under pressure.PASSION FOR RESEARCH & MENTORSHIPAdvancing Medicine: Authored over 130 peer-reviewed articles, driving forward innovation in trauma care by challenging old paradigms.Empowering the Next Generation: A dedicated mentor whose guidance has inspired many young surgeons to achieve their goals.Passionate about building a legacy based not on accolades but on the lives she’s helped shape.THE HUMAN SIDE OF TRAUMA SURGERYThriving Under Pressure: Embraces the intensity of trauma surgery, where split-second decisions make a life-or-death difference.Wellness & Resilience: Focuses on gratitude, maintaining autonomy, and cherishing the little moments of joy (like catching a glimpse of the sunshine) as key elements to avoid burnout and keep passion alive.Learn more at: https://www.inova.org/doctors/paula-a-ferrada-mdOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Brian Treu, CEO and Founder of Intelvio. shares his remarkable journey from bypassing traditional education to building a thriving, debt-free enterprise in medical training. With his innovative “Miracle Hour” strategy, Brian reveals how early-morning focus transformed his daily grind from mere maintenance into breakthrough momentum. He discusses balancing a day job with entrepreneurial pursuits, overcoming fear, and the power of strategic delegation. Brian’s candid insights offer actionable lessons for entrepreneurs striving to scale sustainably and achieve long-term success.Key Discussion Points:The Spark of Entrepreneurship:Embracing an entrepreneurial spirit early on despite unconventional beginnings.Transitioning from a day job to fully committing to his business dream even after many years working both.The Miracle Hour Strategy:Leveraging uninterrupted early-morning productivity to drive growth.Shifting focus from maintenance tasks to creating real momentum.Overcoming Challenges:Balancing multiple roles while learning from failures.The critical importance of delegation and risk-taking in scaling.Takeaways:Structured routines and early-morning focus can fuel breakthrough growth.Resilience and strategic delegation are key to long-term success.Embrace change, overcome fear, and build momentum to scale your business.www.intelvio.comOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Caroline and Sebastian Graeff share their inspiring journey from professional athletes to pioneering health supplement innovators. Growing up in a sports-centric family in France, they combined their athletic passion and entrepreneurial spirit to launch NAIAD. Focused on natural, clinically tested supplements for joint health, stress management, muscle recovery, and weight management, they emphasize authenticity, sustainable practices, and community empowerment to transform personal wellness and contribute to a greener future.Key Discussion Points:Origins & Inspiration: Their formative years in a sports-driven, entrepreneurial family and the transition from athletic challenges to addressing health needs.Identifying the gap in the U.S. market for natural, high-quality supplements.Product Innovation & Sustainability: Development of simple, single-ingredient formulas that are clinically tested and naturally derived.Commitment to eco-friendly packaging and carbon-neutral shipping.Community & Consumer Empowerment: Building a supportive community that educates and inspires sustainable, healthy lifestyles.Integrating wellness education with product offerings to foster long-term habit change.Takeaways:Authentic, sustainable products can redefine personal wellness and environmental impact.Community engagement and education are essential to long-term health success.A clear vision and commitment to quality drive innovation in the competitive wellness industry.https://naiadshop.com/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Angelo Coletta discusses his bold vision for transforming e-commerce through visual customization and immersive technology. Based in Italy, Angelo explains how Zakeke enables merchants to deliver personalized, 3D, and AR-enhanced shopping experiences that bridge artisan craftsmanship with mass production. He shares insights on the evolution of visual commerce, the strategic challenges of onboarding diverse B2B customers, and his long-term plan to redefine online retail, making digital interactions as compelling as in-person experiences.Key Discussion Points:Vision & Inspiration:Predicting the shift towards personalized, immersive e-commerce experiences eight years ago.The spark to merge artisan quality with mass-market affordability.Technology & Innovation:Integrating 3D visualization, AR, and automated back-office processes.Creating a scalable platform that serves small businesses to global brands.Strategic Partnerships & Market Expansion:Building dual pricing models for small and large merchants.Leveraging global partnerships to drive adoption in various markets.Takeaways:Visual commerce is set to become the new standard in online retail.Embracing emerging technologies can redefine customer engagement.Strategic innovation and flexible pricing models drive sustainable growth.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Today we have Kelly Roach—a former NFL cheerleader, Fortune 500 executive turned 8-figure entrepreneur, and one of the only female founders who scaled from 0 to 8 figures without debt or investors. Kelly shares how she invested significantly in her personal brand and built a powerful platform that empowers thousands worldwide through entrepreneurship, bestselling books, a Top 20 podcast, and media features in ABC, NBC, Fox, and Forbes.Topics We Cover: • The journey to building a strong personal brand in a zero-barrier market • How investing in your personal brand differentiates you from the competition • Transitioning from corporate roles to becoming a successful entrepreneur • The concept of “Spiritual Selling” and its impact on business activation • The Miracle Hour strategy—dedicating one hour a day to profit-producing activities • Tips for developing a consistent content strategy and building a mini media company • Strategies for hiring and building a high-performing sales team aligned with your visionKey Takeaways: 💡 Your personal brand is your most valuable asset in a crowded marketplace. 💡 Focusing on your own journey—without comparing yourself to competitors—is crucial for growth. 💡 The Miracle Hour strategy can transform your business by prioritizing profit-producing activities. 💡 Spiritual selling and service-oriented approaches empower both sales and long-term client relationships. 💡 Consistent content creation and a clear vision help you build a sustainable, scalable business.Resources & Mentions: • Kelly Roach International – Leading business growth and branding strategies • The Kelly Roach Show – A Top 20 podcast that delivers impactful insights in under 20 minutes • Spiritual Selling Book – Embracing faith-based principles to activate sales and drive business • Miracle Hour Strategy – Daily core activities that boost profitabilityConnect with Kelly Roach: 📢 Website: https://kellyroachinternational.com/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We sit down with Erika Glenn, an award-winning C-suite growth and healthcare executive, sought-after keynote speaker, and business consultant who is also the CEO and founder of Glenn Professional Services. Erika shares her journey, transitioning from a secure corporate role to building a scalable business, with her TEDx talk at over 500k views. Her insights on personal branding, strategic leadership, and embracing technology are invaluable for any entrepreneur seeking to transform their career and reclaim their life.Topics We Cover:• Transitioning from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship• The inspiration behind building a powerful personal brand• Overcoming the fear of leaving a guaranteed paycheck for entrepreneurship• Practical strategies for scaling a business with a clear vision and empowered team• The importance of mentorship, communication, and tailored go-to-market strategies• How technology and AI drive operational efficiency and innovation• Lessons learned from decades of experience in diverse industriesKey Takeaways:💡 Investing in your personal brand provides a competitive edge and a safety net during transitions.💡 Overcoming fear is essential—focus on your strengths and learn from your mistakes.💡 A clear strategic roadmap, including effective mentorship and process optimization, is crucial for sustainable growth.💡 Technology and AI are transformative tools that boost efficiency, creativity, and overall business success.💡 Empowering your team and evolving from a hands-on operator to a visionary leader is key to scaling.Resources & Mentions:• Glenn Professional Services – Expert business consulting and growth strategies• Personal Branding – The importance of building an authentic, differentiating identity• Strategic Mentorship – Leveraging guidance to avoid common pitfalls• AI & Digital Tools – Enhancing business efficiency and innovationConnect with Erika Glenn:📢 Website: https://erika-glenn.com/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founders Story, Allison Maslan—an entrepreneur with over forty years of experience and the founder/CEO of Pinnacle Global Network—shares her journey from growing up in an entrepreneurial family to building ten companies across diverse industries. Allison dives deep into the challenges of scaling a business, the importance of transitioning from an operator to a visionary leader, and her proven five-phase model for scaling. Along the way, she reveals how she’s helped over 150,000 entrepreneurs overcome the pitfalls of micromanagement, burnout, and operational overwhelm to create sustainable, team-managed businesses.Key Discussion PointsThe Entrepreneurial SparkFamily Influence: Inspired by her grandfather’s and father’s ventures in the retail space, Allison developed a passion for business from an early age.Early Beginnings: She launched her first business at nineteen, setting the stage for a lifelong entrepreneurial journey.Transitioning from Operator to VisionaryOvercoming Early Challenges: She faced significant stress and burnout in the early days of managing every aspect of her businesses, including a near-fatal car accident due to overexertion.Mindset Shift: Realized the need to move away from being the “end-all” operator to becoming a visionary CEO who empowers a team.The Pinnacle Global Network SolutionSolving Common Entrepreneurial Issues: Identified that 95% of business owners struggle with similar challenges—overwhelm, micromanagement, and lack of a clear growth roadmap.Building a Supportive Ecosystem: Founded Pinnacle Global Network in 2010 to provide a community and strategic roadmap that helps CEOs build sustainable, team-managed companies.Premier CEO Network: Currently supports over 150,000 entrepreneurs, offering guidance, mentorship, and a strategic framework for growth.Scaling Phases and Leadership EvolutionFive Phases of Scaling a Business: Startup Phase: The early stage where everything revolves around the founder.Pioneer Phase: Transition into mid six-figures with initial team building—often hindered by fear of delegation.Ringleader Phase: Overcoming the pitfalls of micromanagement and clarifying what success looks like.Co-Creator Phase: Developing a collaborative culture where leadership is shared and team members drive initiatives.Visionary Phase: Achieving a founder-independent business model, allowing the CEO to focus on strategic growth and personal well-being.Real-World Example:Shared the transformative journey of Marshall Doyle, who moved from exhaustive day-to-day management to achieving nine-figure revenue and reclaiming his personal life.The Importance of Personal and Company BrandingBuilding a Dual Brand: Emphasizes the need for both a strong personal brand and a champion company brand that resonates with team culture and client values.Attracting the Right Talent: Focuses on promoting company culture, vision, and mission in recruitment to ensure alignment and foster growth.Embracing AI & The Future of BusinessIntegrating Technology: Discusses how AI is being incorporated to enhance efficiency, drive innovation, and support creative decision-making.Maintaining Human Connection: Despite technological advancements, underscores the importance of human connection, team collaboration, and leadership development.Practical TakeawaysEmbrace Delegation: Transition from being an overbearing operator to a visionary leader by empowering your team and establishing clear roles.Adopt a Proven Growth Roadmap: Utilize the five-phase model to identify which stage your business is in and apply targeted strategies for each phase.Invest in Branding: Build a strong personal and company brand to attract the right talent and create a culture that fuels growth.Leverage Technology: Embrace AI and other innovative tools to streamline operations, but remember that human connection remains key.Focus on Work-Life Balance: Scaling a business should also mean reclaiming your time and energy to lead a fulfilling life.How to ConnectLearn More About Pinnacle Global Network: Visit pinnacleglobalnetwork.com to discover more about their services, CEO strategies, and community.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Daniel sits down with serial entrepreneur Furkat Kasimov, who brings over 20 years of experience building technology businesses. Furkat shares the hard-earned lessons from his career—from early failures to scaling companies—and provides practical advice for startups and established businesses. He also dives into his approach to learning from others, the importance of effective communication, and how to leverage AI for business growth.Key Discussion PointsEarly Entrepreneurial JourneyMotivation to Start: Furkat always believed he had the skills to build something meaningful.Acknowledged that while he wasn’t cut out for careers in science or medicine, his passion and talent for business drove him to entrepreneurship.Learning from Failure: Emphasized that failures are an inherent part of the entrepreneurial journey.Shared that his book includes many examples of past failures, encouraging others to learn from the mistakes of others rather than repeating them.Overcoming ChallengesThe Power of Learning: Highlighted the value of learning from mentors, advisors, and even competitors’ missteps.Believes that acknowledging one’s limitations and seeking external guidance is crucial for growth.Improving Communication: Shared a practical tip: asking team members to repeat back instructions to ensure clarity and prevent miscommunication.Noted that good communication can prevent a multitude of mistakes within a business.Navigating Business AdviceGeneric vs. Tailored Advice: Criticized generic business advice such as the need for a differentiating strategy, stressing that execution often matters more than the strategy itself.Encouraged entrepreneurs to evaluate advice critically and adapt strategies that suit their unique business models.Sustaining and Growing a BusinessVision and Planning: Stressed the importance of having a clear vision or "North Star" to guide long-term strategy.Shared insights on how companies can sustain growth over years by planning and continuously revisiting their business model.Customer Feedback and Product Fit: Recommended interviewing potential customers to understand their problems and refine product offerings.Explained the value of working with design partners to achieve product-market fit.The Role of AI in BusinessEmbracing AI as a Digital Worker: Described his current venture (in stealth mode) that leverages AI to enhance marketing strategies.Urged businesses to treat AI as an integral team member—one that offers creative solutions and efficient support during meetings and strategy sessions.Practical AI Integration: Suggested using AI to brainstorm ideas and streamline operations, comparing it to an external consultant that can provide fresh insights.Writing Don't Do This: A Guide to Business SurvivalPurpose Behind the Book: Furkat’s goal is to provide a roadmap for startups to navigate common pitfalls and enhance their chances of success.He plans to reinvest any earnings from the book as an angel investor, further supporting the startup ecosystem.Personal Motivation: Shared his own struggles and the determination required to push through challenges—paralleling his journey with the broader struggles of many entrepreneurs.Practical Takeaways for EntrepreneursLearn from Mistakes: Absorb lessons from both your own failures and the experiences of others.Communicate Clearly: Use simple techniques like asking for feedback to ensure your message is understood correctly.Focus on Vision: Establish a clear long-term goal to guide your daily operations and strategic decisions.Engage with Customers: Regularly interview potential and current customers to refine your product and business model.Embrace AI: Integrate AI tools into your workflow as a means to enhance creativity and efficiency.Give Back: Consider reinvesting success into your community to foster broader growth and opportunity.Resources & LinksFind Furkat’s Book: Visit don't do this.ai for more details.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder's Story, we sit down with Pauline Malcolm—the visionary CEO of Brand Story Architech and former executive from Essence. With over 25 years of experience in digital tech, media, and marketing, Pauline shares her journey from Silicon Alley to pioneering innovative branding strategies. She explains how AI and data-driven insights are transforming the creator economy and empowering brands to forge authentic connections.Topics We Cover:• The impact of AI on brand storytelling and digital marketing• How data-driven insights can authentically match creators with brands• Strategies for building a strong personal brand beyond logos and visuals• Navigating the creator economy as a mini media company• The future of marketing in an increasingly digital landscapeKey Takeaways:💡 AI tools like social listening and content analytics are revolutionizing brand communication.💡 Authentic storytelling is about expressing a core identity, not just design elements.💡 Creators should view themselves as mini media companies to build sustainable brands.💡 Strategic partnerships and community-building are essential for long-term success.💡 Embracing digital innovation empowers both brands and creators to thrive.Resources & Mentions:• Brand Story Architech – Innovative branding and marketing solutions• Pauline Malcolm’s website – paulinemalcolm.com• AI & digital marketing tools – Enhancing storytelling and audience engagementConnect with Pauline Malcolm:📢 Website: paulinemalcolm.com📷 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandstoryarchitech/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, we sit down with Katherine Dollison, a seasoned voiceover artist, digital marketing strategist, and entrepreneur. As the founder of KatVoix Media and co-host of The Majority Mindset Show, Katherine has built a career by embracing technology and entrepreneurship.Topics we cover:The future of voiceover artistry in the age of AI and technology advancementsThe role of AI in content creation, editing, and digital marketingHow Katherine’s journey from a full-time voice actor in Brooklyn led her to launch her own businessThe importance of understanding digital marketing and website development for creativesStrategies for self-learning and breaking down complex skills into manageable stepsThe entrepreneurial lessons she learned through real estate investments and launching an online learning platformInsights into running a successful podcast and the key to a strong business partnershipKey Takeaways💡 AI is advancing, but human voiceover artists remain irreplaceable due to the need for authenticity and emotional depth.💡 Embracing technology in content creation can be a game-changer, but knowing how to market yourself is crucial.💡 Breaking large projects into short-term, manageable goals is a key strategy for learning and execution.💡 Entrepreneurship requires resilience—failing forward and learning from mistakes can lead to long-term success.💡 Finding the right business partner is essential—complementary skills and shared commitment make all the difference.Resources & MentionsKatVoix Media – Voiceover, digital marketing, and business strategy servicesThe Majority Mindset Show – Hosted by Katherine Dollison & Asha Bland (YouTube & Instagram)AI & Content Creation Tools – Enhancing editing and production efficiencyReal Estate Investing – Lessons learned from property investments in PhiladelphiaLearning Management Systems – Creating an online educational platform for voiceover professionalsConnect with Katherine Dollison📢 Website: FitLadKDLLC📺 YouTube: The Majority Mindset Show📷 Instagram: @TheMajorityMindsetShowOur Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Igor Vainshtein returns to share his journey from early entrepreneurial struggles to major successes. From overcoming near-bankruptcy to executing a strategic exit, Igor offers deep insights on building resilient businesses and pivoting to new ventures with purpose. Igor Vainshtein – Best-selling author, inventor of the Entrepreneurpoly Board Game, founder of 24/7 Golf (sold to GOLFTEC), and creator of GolfTrak.App.1. The Strategic ExitExit Story:Sold his company to a public company (GOLFTEC) in a deal that shared both risk and reward.Discussed how a strategic acquisition can leverage a company’s value chain over traditional EBITDA metrics.Learnings:The reality of most exits involves a transition period—not just a simple “get the check and move on” scenario.Emphasis on working closely with partners to grow both parties' success.2. Overcoming Personal BarriersImposter Syndrome:The exit helped break down long-held self-doubt, enabling Igor to finally launch his board game and publish his book.Lessons Learned:Personal growth often follows facing and overcoming significant business and personal challenges.3. Building on ExperienceFrom Board Games to Books:Igor revisited his old projects, like the Entrepreneurpoly Board Game, updating them to reflect his current insights.Introduced his upcoming book, Agile Manifestation, as a follow-up to his first book, Practical Manifestation.Book Focus:Combines principles from agile methodology with personal development.Provides a practical, step-by-step guide to achieving your dreams by focusing on the inputs rather than just the outcomes.4. Entrepreneurship & the Power of InputsMindset Shift:Transitioned from an obsession with end results (e.g., becoming a billionaire by a certain age) to a focus on the daily habits and inputs that build sustainable success.Key Takeaway:Embracing the process and the daily grind is crucial; success is built step by step, much like the game of golf.5. The Role of Golf as a ConnectorNetworking & Relationships:Golf has played a pivotal role in forging important business relationships.Shared personal anecdotes of meeting industry leaders and influential figures over a round of golf.6. Advice for EntrepreneursKeep Pushing Forward:Persistence is essential—even when the odds are against you.Focus on what you can control (the inputs) and let the outcomes follow.Embrace Failure:Failure is part of the journey and a necessary stepping stone toward ultimate success.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Skyler Logsdon dives into the inspiration and innovation behind Boomerang—an AI-enabled solution that revolutionizes the lost and found process across travel, sports, entertainment, and hospitality. Skyler shares his personal experiences with lost items, the brainstorming behind Boomerang, and how his co-founder, Philip Engelbrecht (a visionary behind Shazam), helped shape the idea. This conversation unpacks the challenges, technological breakthroughs, and strategic partnerships positioning Boomerang as the household name for lost items worldwide.Key Discussion Points:The inception of the Idea:How a personal hassle with lost items and the influence of co-founder Philip Engelbrecht sparked the idea for Boomerang.The concept of creating the “Shazam of lost and found” to simplify what is truly an eight-billion-person problem.Technology & Innovation:The integration of AI, image recognition, and machine learning to match detailed descriptions and photos with found items.A deep dive into how Boomerang streamlines processes for both individuals and businesses, reducing the chaos of traditional lost and found methods.Strategic Partnerships & Global Reach:How early adopter partnerships with airports, hotels, casinos, and entertainment venues helped validate Boomerang’s model.Insights into scaling the solution internationally, with recent expansions into Italy, the UK, and beyond.Business Strategy & Customer Experience:The importance of removing inefficiencies like excessive phone calls and emails in lost and found operations.How Boomerang not only boosts recovery rates but also enhances customer satisfaction and brand loyalty for businesses.Vision for the Future:Skyler’s ambition to have every lost item claim and found item uploaded to Boomerang globally.The role of continuous AI advancements in further refining the platform’s accuracy and speed.Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Michael Hussain shares his transformative journey from a disappointing first experience with a protection dog to becoming a trailblazer in elite dog training. Drawing parallels to entrepreneurial resilience and leadership, Michael explains how his relentless pursuit of excellence led him to develop a groundbreaking training program. His story is a compelling mix of innovation, hard work, and passion—plus his impact on safety in what can feel like an unsafe world.Key Discussion Points:The Catalyst:Michael recounts the eye-opening experience with a misaligned protection dog that changed his perspective.The moment that sparked his commitment to mastering protection dog training.Philosophy & Vision:How Michael blends rigorous research with practical training methods to create dogs that are both safe and effective.The vision to provide real protection without sacrificing the social and loving nature of the dog.Elite Breed Selection:Insight into why Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds are the breeds of choice for high-performance protection.The role of genetics, health, and early training in shaping a dog’s abilities.Personalized Client Experience:Michael’s hands-on approach to matching the right dog with the right client.The importance of mutual commitment for developing an unbreakable bond between owner and dog.Operational Excellence:A behind-the-scenes look at the comprehensive training process—from diet and genetics to ongoing support and client education.Michael’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards by personally overseeing every detail.Additional Resources & Takeaways:https://www.alpinhausshepherds.com/Our Sponsors:* Check out Indeed: https://indeed.com/FOUNDERSSTORY* Check out Northwest Registered Agent and use my code FOUNDERS for a great deal: https://northwestregisteredagent.com* Check out Plus500: https://plus500.com* Check out Rosetta Stone and use my code TODAY for a great deal: https://www.rosettastone.com Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.