Shows
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeCash Flow, Control & Capital: Financing Growth with Marshall Lebovits, Working Capital ExpertOn this episode of Venture Visionaries, host Thomas Igeme sits down with Marshall Lebovits—a lending expert with over 35 years of experience helping fast-growing companies unlock the working capital they need to scale. Marshall’s specialty? Turning receivables, inventory, and even equipment into the fuel that founders need to grow—without giving up equity too soon.Together, Thomas and Marshall pull back the curtain on the real-world messiness of startup finance: the traps and pitfalls, the critical role of cash flow, and the capital strategies that separate survival from scale. Marshall shares stories of founders who faced down c...2025-05-2633 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeWrite It Before You Build It: How PRFAQ Unlocks Startup Success with Marcelo Calbucci, Author & Startup VeteranIn this episode of Venture Visionaries, we spotlight Marcelo Calbucci—author, technologist, and founder—who brings over 25 years of experience across Microsoft, Amazon, and six startups on two continents. Marcelo joins Thomas Igeme to unravel the Amazon-born PRFAQ framework: a powerful writing tool that helps founders pressure-test bold ideas, align teams, and avoid costly mistakes before building anything.Thomas and Marcelo dive deep into how the discipline of writing can sharpen decision-making, foster critical thinking, and reveal hidden gaps—whether you’re scaling a five-person team or navigating the chaos of rapid growth. Marcelo shares stories from his own...2025-05-1934 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeLaunch First, Learn Faster: Workflow, AI & Startup Wisdom with David Hirschfeld, Founder of Tekyz Inc.On this episode of Venture Visionaries, Thomas Igeme sits down with David Hirschfeld—35-year tech veteran, serial entrepreneur, and the creator of the Launch 1st Method. David’s journey spans from early engineering and national sales to launching a logistics software company that served 800 customers in 22 countries and building Tekyz Inc., a firm specializing in AI-driven workflow transformation.Thomas and David dive deep into the realities of software startups, what it really takes to scale, and why founders should validate their ideas with customers before they even start building. David shares hard-won lessons on process documentation, playbooks, and...2025-05-1230 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeThe Power of Grounded Confidence: Reinvention, Leadership & Mindset Mastery with Claudia Fulga, Executive CoachIn this episode of Venture Visionaries, Thomas Igeme welcomes Claudia Fulga—executive coach, former tech executive, and the creative force behind immersive leadership retreats around the globe. Claudia’s story is one of bold reinvention: after leading people strategy in fast-growth tech startups and navigating two successful exits, she pivoted to a mission of helping leaders build grounded confidence from the inside out.Thomas and Claudia explore the mindset strategies that empower high achievers to thrive in uncertainty, the hidden value of travel for personal growth, and what it means to truly practice authenticity and resilience. From raci...2025-05-0533 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeFrom Change Fatigue To Strategic Activation: Using A Champion's Mindset To Disrupt with Nellie Wartoft, CEO TigerHallIn this episode of Venture Visionaries, Thomas Igeme sits down with Nellie Wartoft to discuss her entrepreneurial journey, the founding of Tigerhall, and her innovative approach to change management. Nellie offers a deep dive into her experiences as a national champion in skeet shooting, the inspiration behind Tigerhall, and her perspective on industry trends like mega acquisitions.Listeners will gain actionable advice on leading with empathy, implementing change effectively, and fostering personal and professional growth.2025-02-0333 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeRevolutionizing Legal Disputes with Tech and Empathy: A Conversation with Rich Lee, CEO New Era ADRLegal disputes are often synonymous with stress, time, and expense. But Rich Lee, CEO and Co-Founder of New Era ADR, envisions a better way. Drawing from his unique journey through bioengineering, law, and technology, Rich is on a mission to transform how we approach dispute resolution—making it faster, fairer, and more accessible.In this episode of Venture Visionaries, host Thomas Igeme sits down with Rich to discuss how empathetic leadership, innovative thinking, and calculated risk-taking can reshape industries, build trust, and drive sustainable growth.2025-01-2732 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeBrewing Innovation: Bridging Startups and Corporations with Fred Schonenberg, CEO VentureFuelJoin us for a compelling discussion with Fred Schonenberg, founder of VentureFuel, as we explore how his company bridges the gap between startups and corporations to foster innovation. Fred shares insights into navigating the complexities of large organizations, supporting underrepresented founders, and using storytelling to evaluate startups. Learn how VentureFuel has accelerated growth for over 50 organizations and how Fred is shaping the future of innovation.2025-01-2035 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeThe Science of Growth: High Performance Leadership and Customer-Centricity with Borja Cuan, CEO Four15 DigitalWe’re joined by Borja Cuan, a marketing leader at Four15 Digital, a performance advertising agency helping businesses scale through strategic advertising on platforms like Google, Meta, and LinkedIn. Borja shares his journey into leadership, the importance of customer-centricity, and the strategies that have made Four15 Digital a trusted partner for high-growth companies.Host Thomas Igeme delves into Borja’s leadership philosophy, his approach to adapting in the dynamic digital marketing space, and his thoughts on fostering client relationships in a competitive landscape. This episode is packed with actionable insights for marketers, business leaders, and entrepreneurs looking to g...2025-01-0634 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeMaking The Impossible Possible: Building An Allergy-Free World with Aakash Shah, CEO WyndlyWe spotlight Aakash Shah, Co-Founder and CEO of Wyndly, a cutting-edge telehealth platform revolutionizing allergy treatment. Aakash’s inspiring journey, driven by his personal experiences with debilitating allergies, highlights the intersection of technology and healthcare. Through Wyndly, he’s making life-changing allergy relief accessible to millions.Host Thomas Igeme dives into a thoughtful conversation with Aakash, exploring his entrepreneurial path and the unique challenges of blending innovation with patient-centered care. From tackling operational hurdles to leveraging AI for future growth, Aakash’s insights are both inspiring and actionable for leaders across industries.2024-12-1632 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeRevolutionizing Storytelling: Creativity, AI, and Collaboration with Rob Meyers, Founder at VersusIn this episode of Venture Visionaries, we feature Rob Meyers, Managing Director and Partner at Versus, a studio known for redefining storytelling through innovative client collaborations and original intellectual property. Rob shares his journey from screenwriting to brand development, highlighting the influences that shaped his creative philosophy and Versus’s free-thinking culture.Host Thomas Igeme leads an in-depth discussion with Rob, exploring his insights on leadership, diversity, and the role of AI in the storytelling landscape. This episode is packed with inspiration for creatives, innovators, and anyone fascinated by the fusion of technology and storytelling.2024-12-0934 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeThe Science of Product-Market Fit: Customer Discovery, AI, and Leadership with Nick McEvily, Fractional CPOIn this episode of Venture Visionaries, we spotlight Nick McEvily, a fractional Chief Product Officer and product strategist, known for helping startups define their vision and achieve product-market fit. Nick shares his journey from building things as a child to becoming a startup founder, exploring the value of customer discovery, the ethical implications of AI, and his community-driven work in Mexico City.Host Thomas Igeme guides a dynamic conversation with Nick, diving into his insights on pivoting startups, building trust within teams, and balancing personal and professional life as a fractional leader. This episode provides actionable takeaways...2024-12-0228 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeNavigating the Messy Middle: Mental Health, Company Culture, and Growth with Matt Tait, CEO DecimalIn this episode of Venture Visionaries, we spotlight Matt Tait, a serial entrepreneur, former attorney, and the founder of Decimal, a financial operations company. Matt shares his journey from law school to entrepreneurship, offering insights on navigating the challenges of leadership, mental health, and building a resilient company culture. His experience in accounting, law, and tech gives him a unique perspective on the “messy middle” of business growth, especially for companies scaling from $1 to $50 million in revenue.Host Thomas Igeme leads an engaging conversation with Matt, diving into the tactical and emotional hurdles of business ownership, the sign...2024-11-1834 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeEmpowering SMBs, Building Communities: Unlocking Operational Efficiency with Joshua Monge, CEO Think Adapt Build LLCIn this episode of Venture Visionaries, we spotlight Joshua Monge, a seasoned Fractional COO, entrepreneur, and economic development leader with over 20 years of experience across industries like Food & Beverage, Finance, and Manufacturing. Host Thomas Igeme leads a fascinating discussion with Joshua, exploring the challenges and rewards of business ownership, the power of process mapping for operational efficiency, and the importance of community-centered economic development. Joshua shares personal anecdotes about his journey as an entrepreneur and the values that drive his work. This episode is packed with actionable insights for business owners, economic development leaders, and anyone passionate about creating...2024-11-1129 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeInnovating Giving: Smart Philanthropy & Compassionate Leadership with Melissa Beck, President at Anonymous PhilanthroyIn this episode of Venture Visionaries, we spotlight Melissa Beck, President of Anonymous LLC, a boutique firm dedicated to helping high-net-worth families create impactful philanthropic legacies. This episode dives into a powerful conversation with Melissa, exploring her career transition from finance to philanthropy, the importance of vulnerability in leadership, and how Anonymous LLC helps clients develop strategic giving plans that go beyond simple charity. With a commitment to creating lasting impact, Melissa offers insights into the future of philanthropy and how businesses and individuals alike can use their resources to drive positive change.2024-11-0433 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeThe Art Of The Question: Transforming Leadership and Communication with Sean Grace, Founder Peak LumaIn this episode of Venture Visionaries, we spotlight Sean Grace, the Founder and Principal at Peak Luma – a communication consultancy. Sean is also the author of new release, The Art of the Question, where Sean explores how asking better questions can transform both personal and professional relationships.Host Thomas Igeme leads a thought-provoking conversation with Sean, delving into his journey from performing at Carnegie Hall to leading teams across industries. The episode explores the significance of curiosity in leadership, navigating difficult conversations, and practical strategies for personal and professional growth. Sean shares personal stories and actionable insights, ma...2024-10-2834 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeTL Partners Fireside Chats: M&A Day One ReadinessIn a recent TL Partners Fireside Chat, "Day One Readiness: Laying the Groundwork for Successful M&As in Due Diligence," we explore the pivotal first steps in mergers and acquisitions. Expert panelists Thomas Igeme, Nikoleta Vlamis, Theresa Roswell, and Warren Ragoonanan share their insights on building trust early, integrating differing company cultures, and adapting leadership styles during the crucial initial phases of M&A. This episode is a must-listen for professionals looking to understand the complexities of M&A groundwork and learn practical strategies for ensuring a smooth transition and successful integration from day one. Whether you're a seasoned...2024-07-2241 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeFrom Foster Care to Founder: The Inspiring Journey of Isaiah Dawe, CEO IDKYIsaiah Dawe is the Founder and CEO of ID Know Yourself, an organization dedicated to empowering Aboriginal children in out-of-home care. In this episode, Isaiah shares his powerful story of resilience and transformation, from his childhood experiences in foster care to his leadership role today. We explore the holistic approach of ID Know Yourself, the organization's impact on young lives, and the broader advocacy initiatives Isaiah champions to drive systemic change. Join us as we delve into Isaiah’s leadership philosophy, his vision for the future, and the importance of cultural connections in creating lasting positive change for Aboriginal ch...2024-07-1538 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeResilience in Change: Naomi Davidson, Executive Partner at TL Partners on Leading Through Turbulent TimesIn this episode, we welcome Naomi Davidson, a seasoned HR executive with experience at LinkedIn, Khan Academy, and McKinsey. Currently, she is pioneering the use of Generative AI at TL Partners to transform organizational productivity. Naomi shares her insights on leading teams through hyper-growth, M&A, and economic downturns. We delve into her innovative HR strategies, her engineering approach to problem-solving, and her vision for the future of work with AI. Join us for an enlightening conversation on resilience, adaptability, and transformational leadership.2024-07-0139 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeResilience and Innovation: The Larry Gadea, CEO Envoy StoryMeet Larry Gadea, founder and CEO of Envoy. In this episode, Larry shares his experiences building Envoy, the importance of AI and automation in the workplace, and how Envoy adapted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover insights on leadership, problem-solving, and the future of workplace technology in this engaging conversation.2024-06-2440 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeBridging Gaps, Scaling Success: How Shift Academy's Evan Klein & Hector Hernandez Empower Frontline ManagersMeet Hector Hernandez and Evan Klein, the dynamic duo behind Shift Academy. In this episode, we delve into Hector and Evan’s entrepreneurial journeys and the formation of Shift Academy. They share the inspiration behind their innovative coaching methods and the challenges they faced in building their business. We explore their unique approach to managerial development, which moves beyond traditional training programs to provide practical, impactful solutions. Hector and Evan also discuss the evolving landscape of leadership and enablement, highlighting the importance of individualization in coaching and the role of AI in sales enablement. Additionally, they provide insights into th...2024-06-1348 min
City Church San FranciscoChoosing Church: Choosing to StayThank you for choosing to listen to City Church SF. Rev. Emily McGinley and Elder Thomas Igeme engage in fruitful conversation on the intersection of faith and sexuality, exploring how Jesus “remixes” the things that the people “know” to be true; explaining that it isn’t enough to know the law but, rather, to understand the deeper purpose of the law.
May this sermon be a platform for continued conversation
2024-06-0238 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeThe Art & Science of Change Management: Insights from Nikoleta Vlamis, Founder of Nikoleta & AssociatesWe welcome Nikoleta Vlamis, the trailblazing founder of Nikoleta & Associates, a boutique change management consultancy renowned for its innovative approach to professional services. In this episode, explore the captivating journey of Nikoleta Vlamis, from her foundational experiences in consulting houses to launching and growing her own firm. Discover how her early roles, educational insights at Columbia, and pivotal mentorship moments shaped her approach to entrepreneurship and leadership. Listeners will gain invaluable lessons on mastering the art of change management, the significance of self-awareness in leadership, and the strategies for balancing personal growth with professional demands. Whether you're an aspiring...2024-05-0634 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeBeyond The Battlefield: Leadership Lessons with Roxanne Petraeus, CEO EthenaIn this episode, we are joined by Roxanne Petraeus, CEO of Ethena, a groundbreaking training platform that transforms mandatory compliance training into an engaging, effective experience. Dive deep with us as Roxanne shares her unique journey from military officer to tech entrepreneur, shedding light on the non-traditional paths to success and the importance of diverse leadership experiences. This episode offers invaluable insights into how Ethena is changing the face of compliance training, the impact of ethical leadership in both military and corporate environments, and the future of work including DEI trends. Listeners will gain an understanding of the challenges...2024-04-2236 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeShattering The Silicon Ceiling: Writing Your Own Story with Mai Ton, Founder & CEO EMP HR ConsultingIn this episode of Venture Visionaries, we spotlight Mai Ton, Founder of EMP HR Consulting and an acclaimed executive known for her leadership in Human Resources across tech startups in San Francisco and New York. The episode provides a rare glimpse into Mai’s journey from her early family life to her achievements in the tech world, offering listeners a blend of personal anecdotes and professional wisdom. Focusing on leadership, workplace dynamics, and the importance of authenticity, this episode is a must-listen for anyone aspiring to navigate and succeed in the complexities of today’s tech industry.2024-03-1839 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeBeyond Boundaries: A Journey of Growth, Grit, and Global Impact with Q Hamirani, CPO PaperIn this episode, we explore Q Hamirani's journey, the CPO at Paper and a luminary in business strategy and leadership. A masterclass in resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit, Q's story from a competitive swimmer to a strategic leader at Airbnb showcases his approach to overcoming professional challenges. He offers profound insights into the future of remote work, advocating for flexibility, and discusses Paper's transformative mission in K-12 education. This episode is a valuable guide for anyone interested in career development, embracing challenges, and strategic innovation, inspiring listeners to pursue new professional pathways.2024-03-0440 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeBeyond Boundaries: A Journey of Growth, Grit, and Global Impact with Q Hamirani, CPO PaperIn this episode, we explore the professional journey of Q Hamirani, CPO at Paper and a luminary in business strategy and leadership. A masterclass in resilience and the entrepreneurial spirit, Q's story from a competitive swimmer to a strategic leader at Airbnb showcases his approach to overcoming professional challenges. He offers profound insights into the future of remote work, advocating for flexibility, and discusses Paper's transformative mission in K-12 education. This episode is a valuable guide for anyone interested in career development, embracing challenges, and strategic innovation, inspiring listeners to pursue new professional pathways.2024-03-0440 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Beyond Boundaries: A Journey of Growth, Grit, and Global Impact with Q Hamirani, CPO PaperIn this riveting episode of our podcast, we delve into the world of Q Hamirani, CPO at Paper and a veritable titan in the realm of business strategy, people operations, and organizational leadership. Throughout the episode, listeners are treated to a masterclass in resilience, endurance, and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Q's approach to both life and work. The conversation traverses his early days as a competitive swimmer—laying the foundation for his exceptional resilience—to the strategic insights that guided Airbnb through its exponential growth and the challenges of the pandemic. Q's reflections on the evolution of remote work...2024-03-0104 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeBig, Bold Equity: Jillian Juman, CEO Envision Education's Vision for Inclusive EducationJoin us on Venture Visionaries as we sit down with Jillian Juman, the transformative leader behind Envision Education, who brings over two decades of dedication to educational equity. This episode delves into the innovative Envision Way, Jillian's personal evolution, and the profound impact of fostering inclusive communities of learning. From the streets of downtown Oakland to the halls of Envision Academy, hear how Jillian and her team are creating futures where every student can envision and reach their full potential.2024-02-2639 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Big, Bold Equity: Jillian Juman, CEO Envision Education's Vision for Inclusive EducationFull episode airs 2/26. Join us on Venture Visionaries as we sit down with Jillian Juman, the transformative leader behind Envision Education, who brings over two decades of dedication to educational equity. This episode delves into the innovative Envision Way, Jillian's personal evolution, and the profound impact of fostering inclusive communities of learning. From the streets of downtown Oakland to the halls of Envision Academy, hear how Jillian and her team are creating futures where every student can envision and reach their full potential.2024-02-2203 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeBeautiful Bridges Pt. 2: Building The Kind of Coalitions That Change The World With Nisha Anand, CEO Dream.orgPart 2 of our conversation with Nisha Anand, CEO of Dream.org. Be sure to listen to part 1 first.2024-02-1927 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeBeautiful Bridges Pt. 1: Building The Kind of Coalitions That Change The World With Nisha Anand, CEO Dream.orgIn part 1 of this compelling episode of our podcast, we're honored to welcome Nisha Anand, the dynamic CEO of Dream.org, an organization at the forefront of driving social change. Join us as Nisha shares insights into Dream.org's groundbreaking work, including their bipartisan efforts to push legislation forward and create tangible improvements in communities nationwide. We'll delve into the power of uniting people from all walks of life to achieve common goals, the challenges and victories of advocating for change, and Nisha's visionary leadership that inspires action. This episode is a testament to the belief that collaboration and...2024-02-1230 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Beautiful Bridges: Building The Kind of Coalitions That Change The World With Nisha Anand, CEO Dream.orgFull episode goes live 2/12. In part 1 of this compelling episode of our podcast, we're honored to welcome Nisha Anand, the dynamic CEO of Dream.org, an organization at the forefront of driving social change. Join us as Nisha shares insights into Dream.org's groundbreaking work, including their bipartisan efforts to push legislation forward and create tangible improvements in communities nationwide. We'll delve into the power of uniting people from all walks of life to achieve common goals, the challenges and victories of advocating for change, and Nisha's visionary leadership that inspires action. This episode is a testament to the...2024-02-0904 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeChoosing Both: Blending The Creative And The Strategic To Make Magic With Kat Steinmetz, Investor At InitializedJoin us in an insightful episode of Venture Visionaries featuring Katrina Steinmetz, a seasoned HR executive and early-stage investor. Dive into Katrina's journey from shaping organizational cultures to her current role in venture capital, where she focuses on the future of work and SaaS enterprise software. The episode covers a range of topics including innovative HR strategies, leadership development, and investing insights. Katrina shares her experiences from Burning Man to Stitch Fix, offering a perspective on how emotional intelligence and a people-centric approach can transform organizations. Listen in for a fascinating discussion on leadership investment, personal growth, and the...2024-02-0539 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Choosing Both: Blending The Creative And The Strategic To Make Magic With Kat Steinmetz, Investor at InitializedJoin us in an insightful episode of Venture Visionaries featuring Katrina Steinmetz, a seasoned HR executive and early-stage investor. Dive into Katrina's journey from shaping organizational cultures to her current role in venture capital, where she focuses on the future of work and SaaS enterprise software. The episode covers a range of topics including innovative HR strategies, leadership development, and investing insights. Katrina shares her experiences from Burning Man to Stitch Fix, offering a perspective on how emotional intelligence and a people-centric approach can transform organizations. Listen in for a fascinating discussion on leadership investment, personal growth, and the...2024-01-3104 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeA Big, Audacious Career: Building Professional Depth & Length With Andrew Bartlow, Managing Partner Series B ConsultingMeet Andrew Bartlow, a renowned Human Resources and organizational effectiveness expert with over 25 years of experience. In this episode of Venture Visionaries, we delve into Andrew's profound insights on HR's strategic role in business success. The discussion covers Andrew's career journey, his approach to leadership development, and the influence of HR in shaping organizational culture. Listeners will explore the nuances of strategic HR management and its impact on effective leadership, gaining valuable knowledge applicable to various professional settings.2024-01-2937 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - A Big, Audacious Career: Building Professional Depth & Length With Andrew Bartlow, Managing Partner Series B ConsultingMeet Andrew Bartlow, a renowned Human Resources and organizational effectiveness expert with over 25 years of experience. In this episode of Venture Visionaries, we delve into Andrew's profound insights on HR's strategic role in business success. The discussion covers Andrew's career journey, his approach to leadership development, and the influence of HR in shaping organizational culture. Listeners will explore the nuances of strategic HR management and its impact on effective leadership, gaining valuable knowledge applicable to various professional settings.2024-01-2403 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeThe Art Of Becoming: Evolving Your Personal & Professional Self with Dalglish Chew, Partner & Coach-In-Residence Avalanche VCIn this insightful episode of Venture Visionaries, join host Thomas Igeme in conversation with Dalglish Chew, Partner and Coach-in-Residence at Avalanche VC. This episode delves into themes of cultural perspectives in leadership, empathy in professional relationships, and the evolution of personal and professional identity. Join us as Dalglish shares his insights on fostering effective leadership and the importance of embracing diverse worldviews.2024-01-2237 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - The Art Of Becoming: Evolving Your Personal & Professional Self with Dalglish Chew, Partner & Coach-In-Residence at Avalanche VCFull episode available Jan 22. In this insightful episode of Venture Visionaries, join host Thomas Igeme in conversation with Dalglish Chew, Partner and Coach-in-Residence at Avalanche VC. This episode delves into themes of cultural perspectives in leadership, empathy in professional relationships, and the evolution of personal and professional identity. Join us as Dalglish shares his insights on fostering effective leadership and the importance of embracing diverse worldviews.2024-01-1803 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeFrom The Vault - The Courage To Stick And The Courage To Shift: A Conversation With Tyler Muse, CEO LingoLiveIn this episode, first aired in 2023, we get to hear from Tyler Muse, CEO of LingoLive. Tyler shares the genesis story of LingoLive, and how it evolved to the coaching leader it is today. He walks through the challenges of selling into the Learning & Development (L&D) market and how to navigate them. He outlines the role of values-driven leadership and why it has been so critical to his leadership journey and then takes time to share his unique approach to creating balance for himself and his employees2024-01-1630 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeFrom the Vault - Being Brilliant And Owning It: Inside the Mind of Jasmine Shells, CEO of FiveToNineIn this episode we first aired in S1, we sit down with Jasmine Shells, CEO of Five To Nine. Jasmine is one of less than 100 black women in the US who have ever raised over $1M. She shares her proven approach for startup fundraising and the intersection of diversity and inclusion on that and every other part of the founder journey. We delve into her approach to personal growth and understand the importance of keeping your company’s mission aligned. Jasmine walks us through how real solutions for real customers will always trounce fleeting trends. She then unpacks the ch...2024-01-0837 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeTectonic Transformation: Practicing The Kind of Growth That Changes Lives with Brian Frank, CEO at Farm-Hand.AIIn our Season 2 Premier, we delve into the leadership journey of Brian Frank, former VP at LinkedIn and COO of Cameo, now CEO of Farm-Hand.AI. The episode covers a range of topics from Brian's unique career path, his approach to leadership in rapid-growth environments, to the importance of diversity in corporate America. Listeners gain invaluable lessons on leading through change, embracing personal growth, and the role of authenticity in successful leadership.2024-01-0237 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Tectonic Transformation: Practicing The Kind of Growth That Changes Lives with Brian Frank, CEO at Farm-Hand.AIFull episode available Jan 2. In the season 2 premier of Venture Visionaries, we delve into the leadership journey of Brian Frank, former VP at LinkedIn and COO of Cameo, now CEO of Farm-Hand.AI. The episode covers a range of topics from Brian's unique career path, his approach to leadership in rapid-growth environments, to the importance of diversity in corporate America. Listeners will gain valuable lessons on leading through change, embracing personal growth, and the role of authenticity in successful leadership.2023-12-2703 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeInner Wisdom, Outer Success: Harnessing Intuition To Win Authentically with Leila Williams, Executive Spiritual CoachIn this profound episode, we break the mold of a traditional business podcasts as we introduce Leila Williams, an executive spiritual mentor whose coaching transcends traditional boundaries, merging the realms of business acumen with deep spiritual insight. This episode delves into the critical balance between intuition and conventional business strategies, offering invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. We explore topics such as overcoming imposter syndrome through a deeper connection with one's intuition, navigating the complexities of the coaching industry in the digital age, and the transformative potential of embracing one's true self. Leila shares her personal experiences...2023-12-1837 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Inner Wisdom, Outer Success: Harnessing Intuition To Win Authentically with Leila Williams, Executive Spiritual CoachFull episode available Dec 18. In this profound episode, we break the mold of a traditional business podcast as we introduce Leila Williams, an executive spiritual mentor whose coaching transcends traditional boundaries, merging the realms of business acumen with deep spiritual insight. This episode delves into the critical balance between intuition and conventional business strategies, offering invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders. We explore topics such as overcoming imposter syndrome through a deeper connection with one's intuition, navigating the complexities of the coaching industry in the digital age, and the transformative potential of embracing one's true self. Leila...2023-12-1304 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeShaping Tomorrow: Building Bridges & Investing In Impact with Jon Skolnick, CEO FACES SFIn this captivating episode we spotlight Jonathan Skolnick, the passionate CEO of FacesSF, a nonprofit making significant strides in early child development and family support in San Francisco's underserved neighborhoods. Join us as we journey through Jonathan's transformation from a high school history teacher to an influential leader in the realm of social services and education. The episode provides a deep dive into the innovative approaches of FacesSF, from their focus on providing quality early childhood education to their efforts in workforce training and family support services. This conversation is essential listening for anyone interested in the synergies between...2023-12-1143 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Shaping Tomorrow: Building Bridges & Investing In Impact with Jon Skolnick, CEO FACES SFFull episode available Dec 11. In this captivating episode, we spotlight Jonathan Skolnick, the passionate CEO of FacesSF, a nonprofit making significant strides in early child development and family support in San Francisco's underserved neighborhoods. Join us as we journey through Jonathan's transformation from a high school history teacher to an influential leader in the realm of social services and education. The episode provides a deep dive into the innovative approaches of FacesSF, from their focus on providing quality early childhood education to their efforts in workforce training and family support services. This conversation is essential listening for anyone interested...2023-12-0703 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeBreaking Barriers: Rewriting Educational Equity with Irene Shih, CEO Minds Matter Bay AreaIn this enlightening episode, we introduce Irene Shih, the innovative CEO of Minds Matter Bay Area (MMBay), an organization revolutionizing educational equity for high-achieving, low-income students. Dive into an engaging discussion that navigates Irene's transformation from a classroom educator to a visionary leader, and how her experiences shape the culture and strategy of MMBay. The episode delves into the intricacies of their mentorship model, the challenge of balancing depth with scale in educational initiatives, and the organization's resilience during the pandemic. This dialogue is a must-listen for those interested in the intersection of education, leadership, and social impact, providing...2023-12-0439 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Breaking Barriers: Rewriting Educational Equity with Irene Shih, CEO Minds Matter Bay AreaFull Episode Available Dec 4. In this enlightening episode, we introduce Irene Shih, the innovative CEO of Minds Matter Bay Area (MMBay), an organization revolutionizing educational equity for high-achieving, low-income students. Dive into an engaging discussion that navigates Irene's transformation from a classroom educator to a visionary leader, and how her experiences shape the culture and strategy of MMBay. The episode delves into the intricacies of their mentorship model, the challenge of balancing depth with scale in educational initiatives, and the organization's resilience during the pandemic. This dialogue is a must-listen for those interested in the intersection of education, leadership...2023-11-3002 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeSearching For Talent & Uncovering Treasure With AI: Going Deep With Jeremy Schiff, CEO RecruitbotIn this episode, we meet Jeremy Schiff, the visionary founder and CEO of RecruitBot, and delve deep into Jeremy's unique insights and experiences. He unravels the early influences that shaped his path, from his academic advisor's approachable take on technology to the invaluable lessons learned at Microsoft with his father. The conversation pivots to the core of RecruitBot's innovation - using machine learning to revolutionize how we find and engage top talent. Jeremy demystifies the hype around AI in HR tech, revealing the practical, impactful applications of AI and machine learning in recruitment. Get ready to be inspired by...2023-11-2739 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Searching For Talent & Uncovering Treasure With AI: Going Deep With Jeremy Schiff, CEO RecruitbotFull Episode Available Nov 27. In this episode, we meet Jeremy Schiff, the visionary founder and CEO of RecruitBot, and delve deep into his unique insights and experiences. He unravels the early influences that shaped his path, from his academic advisor's approachable take on technology to the invaluable lessons learned at Microsoft with his father. The conversation pivots to the core of RecruitBot's innovation - using machine learning to revolutionize how we find and engage top talent. Jeremy demystifies the hype around AI in HR tech, revealing the practical, impactful applications of AI and machine learning in recruitment. Get ready...2023-11-2003 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeNurturing Human Connection: The Hone Blueprint for Evolving Leadership with Cofounders Savina Perez and Tom GriffithsIn this episode, we connect with the dynamic duo, Savina Perez and Tom Griffiths, the co-founders of Hone. Savina and Tom unfold the origin story of Hone, shedding light on how their paths converged to disrupt the corporate training industry. Their reflection on partnership, growth, and the importance of customer relationships provides a raw glimpse into the pillars that uphold Hone. They delve into the essence of building a strong organizational culture and the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in shaping not only a vibrant workplace but also a responsive and innovative product. This episode is a treasure trove...2023-11-1335 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Nurturing Human Connection: The Hone Blueprint for Evolving Leadership with Cofounders Savina Perez and Tom GriffithsIn this episode, we connect with the dynamic duo, Savina Perez and Tom Griffiths, the co-founders of Hone. Savina and Tom unfold the origin story of Hone, shedding light on how their paths converged to disrupt the corporate training industry. Their reflection on partnership, growth, and the importance of customer relationships provides a raw glimpse into the pillars that uphold Hone. They delve into the essence of building a strong organizational culture and the significance of diversity, equity, and inclusion in shaping not only a vibrant workplace but also a responsive and innovative product. This episode is a treasure trove...2023-11-0803 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeCuriosity-Fueled Success: Unlocking Potential By Asking The Tough Questions With Andres Blank, CEO FetcherIn this episode, we sit down with serial entrepreneur Andres Blank, CEO of Fetcher, As we delve into how building and selling three successful businesses led to Fetcher's journey, Blank emphasizes the role of curiosity and adaptation in steering its growth. He shares past business lessons that now guide his service-oriented leadership at Fetcher, how branding propelled Fetcher amidst a crowded market and the shift to remote work during the pandemic. Blank imparts advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and explores the importance of mastering tough conversations for organizational growth.2023-11-0631 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Curiosity-Fueled Success: Unlocking Potential By Asking The Tough Questions With Andres Blank, Fetcher CEOEpisode airs Nov 6. In this episode, we chat with serial entrepreneur, Andres Blank, CEO of Fletcher. As we delve into Fetcher's journey, Blank shares how he has built and sold successful businesses three times over and emphasizes the role of curiosity and adaptation in steering its growth. He shares past business lessons that now guide his service-oriented leadership at Fetcher, how branding propelled Fetcher amidst a crowded market and the shift to remote work during the pandemic. Blank imparts advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and explores the importance of mastering tough conversations for organizational growth.2023-11-0202 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeSibling Revelry: Getting The Party Going With Chezie Cofounders Dumebi and Toby EgbunaIn this episode, we connect with Dumebi Egbuna and Toby Egbuna, Cofounders of Chezie. Toby and Dumebi discuss the challenges faced by minorities in the workplace, including the lack of representation in leadership and the prevalence of microaggressions, which can lead to imposter syndrome and a sense of being stuck in one’s current position. They emphasize the importance of effective allyship and empowering underrepresented folks to advocate for themselves. They walk through the origin story of Chezie, including its first iteration, Diversify, how that failed, and how those learnings led to Chezie’s dcucess. They share insider tips on s...2023-10-3036 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Sibling Revelry: Getting The Party Going With Chezie Cofounders Dumebi and Toby EgbunaEpisode coming October 30. In this episode, we connect with Dumebi Egbuna and Toby Egbuna, Cofounders of Chezie. Toby and Dumebi discuss the challenges faced by minorities in the workplace, including the lack of representation in leadership and the prevalence of micro-aggressions, which can lead to imposter syndrome and a sense of being stuck in one’s current position. They emphasize the importance of effective allyship and empowering underrepresented folks to advocate for themselves. They walk through the origin story of Chezie, including its first iteration, Diversify, how that failed, and how those learnings led to Chezie’s dcucess. They share insi...2023-10-2604 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeStarted From The Bottom Now We Here: Lessons From Childhood Friends & BrightHire Cofounders, Ben Sesser and Teddy ChestnutIn this episode, we sit down with Ben Sesser and Teddy Chestnut, Co-founders of BrightHire. Ben and Teddy explore their entrepreneurial roots and the origin story of BrightHire. They dissect the lack of rigor and transparency in the hiring process and the transformative potential of technology in this sphere. They walk us through the key ingredients of a productive co-founder partnership. They reflect on the centrality of stakeholders, particularly talent acquisition leaders and recruiters, in shaping a collaborative hiring process. We reflect on the intricacies of growing a business amidst economic volatility and the unique imprint of the global...2023-10-2337 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview: Started From The Bottom Now We Here: Lessons From Childhood Friends & BrightHire Cofounders, Ben Sesser and Teddy ChestnutFull episode coming Oct 23. In this episode, we sit down with Ben Sesser and Teddy Chestnut, Co-founders of BrightHire. Ben and Teddy explore their entrepreneurial roots and the origin story of BrightHire. They dissect the lack of rigor and transparency in the hiring process and the transformative potential of technology in this sphere. They walk us through the key ingredients of a productive co-founder partnership. They reflect on the centrality of stakeholders, particularly talent acquisition leaders and recruiters, in shaping a collaborative hiring process. We reflect on the intricacies of growing a business amidst economic volatility and the unique...2023-10-1904 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeBeing Brilliant And Owning It: Inside The Mind of Jasmine ShellsIn this episode, we sit down with Jasmine Shells, CEO of Five To Nine. Jasmine is one of less than 100 black women in the US who have ever raised over $1M. She shares her proven approach for startup fundraising and the intersection of diversity and inclusion on that and every other part of the founder journey. We delve into her approach to personal growth and understand the importance of keeping your company’s mission aligned. Jasmine walks us through how real solutions for real customers will always trounce fleeting trends. She then unpacks the challenges of navigating divergent ideas, and ad...2023-10-1637 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Being Brilliant And Owning It: Inside The Mind of Jasmine Shells, CEO Five to NineIn this episode, we sit down with Jasmine Shells, CEO of Five To Nine. Jasmine is one of less than 100 black women in the US who have ever raised over $1M. She shares her proven approach for startup fundraising and the intersection of diversity and inclusion on that and every other part of the founder journey. We delve into her approach to personal growth and understand the importance of keeping your company’s mission aligned. Jasmine walks us through how real solutions for real customers will always trounce fleeting trends. She then unpacks the challenges of navigating divergent ideas, and ad...2023-10-1403 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeValues and Vision: A Blueprint To Keep Pointing In The Right Direction From Rajeeb Dey, CEO LearnerblyIn this episode, we meet Rajeeb Dey, CEO of Learnerbly. Rajeeb shares his journey as an entrepreneur, starting with his first venture for Student Voice at the age of 17, and how he went on to start three other ventures, including Learnably. He talks about his philosophy of making a difference in the world and how a deep sense of agency drives the best founders. He shares his product development model. Rajeeb discusses how to build company accelerating culture and values, and ensure they drive every decision in the company from hiring to product direction.2023-10-0933 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview - Values and Vision: A Blueprint To Keep Pointing In The Right Direction from Rajeeb Day, CEO LearnerblyEpisode premiers: Oct 9. In this upcoming episode, we meet Rajeeb Dey, CEO of Learnerbly. Rajeeb shares his journey as an entrepreneur, starting with his first venture for Student Voice at the age of 17, and how he went on to start three other ventures, including Learnably. He talks about his philosophy of making a difference in the world and how a deep sense of agency drives the best founders. He shares his product development model. Rajeeb discusses how to build company accelerating culture and values, and ensure they drive every decision in the company from hiring to product direction.2023-10-0502 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeShaking Things Up: A Study In Industry Transformation with Arielle Kilroy, CEO DadoIn this episode, we hang with Arielle Kilroy, CEO of Dado. Arielle shares her entrepreneurial journey creating new product categories across industries, from entertainment to advocacy, and now HR tech. She walks through the challenges and opportunities in creating a new category, including how to educate a market on what is possible. She presents a proven blue print for new product development and emphasizes the importance of balancing passion for innovation with respecting the organization’s norms and wisdom. She reflects on the big differences between the European and American startup scenes, and what each can learn from the other.2023-10-0232 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview Ep03 - Shaking Things Up: A Study In Industry Transformation with Arielle Kilroy, CEO DadoEpisode Release Date: October 2. In this episode, we will be hanging with Arielle Kilroy, CEO of Dado. Arielle shares her entrepreneurial journey creating new product categories across industries, from entertainment to advocacy, and now HR tech. She walks through the challenges and opportunities in creating a new category, including how to educate a market on what is possible. She presents a proven blue print for new product development and emphasizes the importance of balancing passion for innovation with respecting the organization’s norms and wisdom. And she reflects on the big differences between the European and American startup scenes, and wh...2023-09-2501 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeThe Courage To Stick & The Courage To Shift: A Conversation with Tyler Muse, CEO LingoLiveIn this episode, we get to hear from Tyler Muse, CEO of LingoLive. Tyler shares the genesis story of LingoLive, and how it evolved to the coaching leader it is today. He walks through the challenges of selling into the Learning & Development (L&D) market and how to navigate them. He outlines the role of values-driven leadership and why it has been so critical to his leadership journey and then takes time to share his unique approach to creating balance for himself and his employees. Tune in to see exactly what the courage to stick and the courage to...2023-09-2530 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemePreview Ep02 - The Courage To Stick & The Courage To Shift: A Conversation With Tyler Muse, CEO LingoLiveIn this episode, we get to hear from Tyler Muse, CEO of LingoLive. Tyler shares the genesis story of LingoLive, and how it evolved to the coaching leader it is today. He walks through the challenges of selling into the Learning & Development (L&D) market and how to navigate them. He outlines the role of values-driven leadership and why it has been so critical to his leadership journey and then takes time to share his unique approach to creating balance for himself and his employees. Tune in to see exactly what the courage to stick and the courage to shift...2023-09-2001 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeWelcome to Venture VisionariesWelcome to Venture Visionaries: Behind The Business. Here's a bit about what you can expect, why I created this podcast in the first place and what I hope you get out of it.2023-09-1503 min
Venture Visionaries with Thomas IgemeWhat Happens When You Get To Play Again: Real Talk With Mark Simpson, CEO of PillarAs a special preview, here's an early release of our inaugural episode, launching Monday, September 18. We sit down with Mark Simpson, CEO of Pillar as he shares his lessons learned as a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful exits. We cover the keys to building an attractive acquisition target business, harnessing the explosive interest in GenAI, balancing entrepreneurship and philanthropy and purpose-driven leadership. Tune in to discover what it takes to win, again and again.2023-09-1325 min
Capital P in People Work44 | Leave Work Energized with Thomas IgemeYes, it’s possible to leave work energized. No, it’s not easy and yes, it is hard to find companies doing this. But, this is exactly why Thomas Igeme created TL Partners, a leadership and inclusion consulting and training company that focuses on managing energy and wellness as a core ingredient to professional development.
Join me in chatting with Thomas to learn how this might be possible…we may even get a little philosophical.
Want to learn more about Thomas and TL Partners?
Find him on Linked...2023-08-2936 min
Own Your Career Own Your Life: Stop Drifting and Take Control of Your FutureHow to Become a Black Ally with Thomas IgemeYou can reach out to Thomas at thomas.igeme@servicenow.com or on his LinkedIn. Thomas's article on LinkedIn:
2020-06-2257 min