Shows
Startup SavantBuilding a Business That Scales: In-Depth with Ken GavronovicThis week on the Startup Savant podcast, we dove deep with Ken Gavranovic into scaling businesses that stand the test of time. We uncovered the essence of product-led growth – shining light on the user experience as a catalyst for organic expansion. Ken shared the riveting journey of Interland; from equity hurdles to a triumphant IPO, emphasizing the monumental leap from $0 to $200 million. We rallied behind his advocacy for employee ownership and aligning your team's heartbeat with the company's core mission.Ken Gavranovic Links: https://kengavranovic.com/Startup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.yout...2023-12-1348 min
Startup SavantThe Power of Self-Belief with Curtis Matsko of Portland Leather GoodsCurtis Matsko, the founder of Portland Leather Goods, joins the podcast to share the story and learnings of growing his company from its humble origins launching inside his garage. Curtis shares tales about convincing his girlfriend to leave her job and trust in his now wildly successful company and living at a Zen monastery. Portland Leather Goods: https://www.portlandleathergoods.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-matsko Startup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@StartupSavantPodcast/https://www.instagram.com/startupsavantpodcast/https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-savant/
2023-11-2954 min
Startup SavantThe Secret to Superior Product Demos with Author Chris MatthewsAuthor Chris Matthews joins the podcast to share his experience in the startup world and how it led him to write his new book Start Telling People. This episode we dive into how to create superior product demos, mistakes you might be making when showcasing your products, and how to bridge the gap to create a better startup culture in your business. Chris Matthews Links: http://www.verysmallrobots.com/http://www.starttellingpeople.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Start-Telling-People-Chris-Matthews/dp/B0C4XWSXY9https://www.audible.com/pd/B0CJWG3994/?source_code=AUDFPWS0223189MWT-BK-ACX0-366385&ref=acx_bty...2023-11-1550 min
Startup SavantThe Basics to Startup Legal With Venturous CounselThis week we are joined by Aravinda Seshadri founder of Venturous Counsel, a startup law firm specializing in helping diverse-led startups and their allies navigate the legal complexities of entrepreneurship. The pair chat about the insights and advice on the basics of startup legal, covering topics such as equity distribution, founder shares, funding options, building strategic partnerships, and much more. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned startup founder, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you navigate the legal landscape and set your startup up for success.Venturous Counsel Links:https://www...2023-11-0154 min
Startup SavantThe Business of Fluoride-Free Toothpaste: RisewellKori Estrada, founder of Risewell, joins the podcast. Kori shares the story behind her fluoride-free toothpaste brand, the problematic nature of fluoride in oral care products, and how the brand found the replacement ingredient, hydroxyapatite. With a background in finance, Kori didn't foresee a career in better-for-you products, the founder discusses the journey to becoming a founder and what she's learned along the way.Risewell Links:https://risewell.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/koriestrada/Startup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@StartupSavantPodcast/https://www.instagram.com/startupsavantpodcast/https://www.linkedin.co...2023-10-1852 min
Startup SavantLessons From a Serial Entrepreneur: Wissam Tabbara of TruebaseWissam Tabbara, founder of Truebase, discusses how to build and scale startups, focusing on developing the right go-to-market strategy and not just the product. He emphasizes starting with identifying the problem you want to solve first, rather than starting with a solution looking for a problem to solve. Tabbara shares his experience founding multiple successful companies and insights on what makes startups succeed.Truebase Links:https://truebase.io/https://www.linkedin.com/in/wissamtabbara/Startup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@StartupSavantPodcast/https://www.instagram.com/startupsavantpodcast/https://www.linkedin.com/c...2023-10-0449 min
Startup SavantFrom Grammy-Winner to Entrepreneur: The Story Behind Devo Harris' AdventrDevo Harris went from grammy award winning producer and founder of GOOD Music alongside Kanye West to successful tech startup founder. Harris founded Adventr to introduce interactive video marketing to the mainstream and to create valuable experiences for consumers. On this episode of the podcast, we chat with Devo about how his background influenced his entrepreneurial journey, the ways venture capital needs to change, and how working with Kanye impacted his story so far. About the guest: Devo Harris is a Grammy award winning producer, entrepreneur, and founding member of Kanye West’s label GOOD Musi...2023-09-2048 min
Startup SavantPillow Talk: The Genius SEO of Weighted Pillow Startup Quiet MindWhat is a weighted pillow and why did the founders of YouTube and GoPro invest in the company behind it? Mikey Goldman, founder of Quiet Mind, joined the Startup Savant podcast to discuss the creation of the first-ever weighted pillow. Diagnosed with ADHD and math dyslexia, Mikey was overprescribed a litany of medications to manage his symptoms daily. The founder decided there must be another way. In this episode we discuss how Mikey created the weighted pillow in stealth mode, the necessity of NDAs even for friends, and how a mixture of PR and SEO has become t...2023-09-1351 min
Startup SavantHow Sweety Landed the #1 US Retailer as their First Customer#77. Tiffany Yang, the co-founder of Sweety, shares her journey from taking her family’s small shaved ice cream shop and creating a nationally distributed brand in stores like Walmart and Costco. She shares the wild tale of landing Walmart as Sweety’s first retail customer and the challenges the startup faced along the way. Tiffany also highlights the importance of storytelling, persistence, and staying true to your brand values in the startup world.Sweety Links: https://www.sweetyicecream.com/IG/TikTok: @sweetyicecreamco Startup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@StartupSavantPodcast/https://www.ins...2023-09-0650 min
Startup SavantPutting an End to 'Junk Food Media' with Hidden CompassWhat caused the rise of clickbait? This week we are joined by Sivani Babu, co-founder of Hidden Compass, to discuss the rise of clickbait or ‘junk food media,’ its role in the devolution of journalism as we know it today, and how Hidden Compass is turning the tides to create a better tomorrow for media.Hidden Compass Links: https://hiddencompass.net/https://www.instagram.com/hiddencompassmedia/https://twitter.com/Hidden_Compasshttps://www.instagram.com/wayfaringsiv/Startup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@StartupSavantPodcast/https://www.instagram.com/startupsavantpodcast/https://www.linkedin.com/co...2023-08-3052 min
Startup SavantBuilding a Beverage Empire: How Pop & Bottle Carved Out a Niche in CoffeeThis startup shaped the ready-to-drink coffee aisle we know today. This week we are joined by Jash Mehta, co-founder of Pop & Bottle. You’ll probably recognize Pop & Bottle from your local refrigerated drink section, however, achieving nationwide distribution was no stroke of good luck. Jash discusses carving out a niche early on, building based on data and feedback, and the importance of keeping fundraising top of mind at all points in time.Pop & Bottle Links: https://www.popandbottle.com/https://www.instagram.com/popandbottle/Startup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@Star...2023-08-2344 min
Startup SavantUnveiling the Truth About PR and Its Untapped Potential with UprightAre you undervaluing PR as an IPO-strategy? Paul Wilke, founder of Upright Position Communications joins the podcast to discuss the relationship between PR and exiting. Paul also provides valuable advice on evaluating PR firms, identifying your internal PR person, representing yourself as an executive during an IPO, and the importance of clear communication in promoting a company.Upright Position Communications Links: https://uprightcomms.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/pwilke/Startup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcast https://www.youtube.com/@StartupSavantPodcast/ https://www.instagram.com/startupsavantpodcast/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-savant/
2023-08-1656 min
Startup SavantIs the Sober-Curious Movement Here to Stay? With Libby Wines#73. Are low-ABV beverages here to stay? The co-founders of Libby, Grant Hemingway and John Green, are on a mission to create a better-for-you wine experience that scales. John and Grant emphasize the need for transparency and authenticity in marketing, and they share their journey of creating Libby as a response to the demand for refreshing, low-alcohol, low-calorie wines. They also discuss the challenges of entering the wholesale market, the importance of understanding consumer preferences, and their mission to make the wine industry more inclusive and accessible.Libby Links: https://drinklibby.com/https://instagram.com/dr...2023-08-0946 min
Startup SavantHow Hiring (And Firing) Can Make or Break Your Startup with ReCould your hiring and firing strategy be hurting your startup? This week on the Startup Savant podcast, Ethan is joined by Karn Saroya, founder of Re a blockchain-based reinsurance startup. The pair discuss Karn’s evolution as a leader from his first startup to now, how performance management and hiring (or firing) employees can make or break your startup, and the real value behind Y Combinator’s personalized growth metrics. Re Links: https://re.xyz/https://twitter.com/REprotocolEmail Karn: karn@re.xyzStartup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@StartupSavantPodcast/https...2023-08-0247 min
Startup SavantHow to Get From Prototype to Product with the Founders of Frame#71. In this episode of the Startup Savant Podcast, Ethan interviews Melissa and Lee, the co-founders of Frame, a fitness company specializing in Pilates reformers. They discuss their journey from closing their brick-and-mortar studio due to the pandemic to creating a home version of the reformer. The couple delves into the challenges of designing, prototyping and manufacturing a physical product with no experience.Frame Links: https://www.framefitness.com/https://instagram.com/framereformerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-belzberg-7831301b/https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-bentivoglio-227369222/Startup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@St...2023-07-2642 min
Startup SavantDarkroom: Using Marketing as a Secret Weapon for Startup Scale#70. Lucas DiPietrantonio and Jackson Corey, co-founders of Darkroom, join the podcast. DiPietrantonio and Corey discuss their three-year roadmap, which includes building their own educational resource, Darkroom University. They also delve into their unique perspective as entrepreneurs and investors, their focus on customer satisfaction and bottom-line results, and their proprietary framework for assessing and diagnosing businesses' growth challenges. They stress the need for long-term partnerships and the importance of a strong product-market fit and continuous improvement.Darkroom Links: https://www.darkroomagency.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jcorey/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucasdipietrantonio/Startup Savant L...2023-07-1944 min
Startup SavantKnowing When to Trust Your Gut with Rachel Krupa of The Goods Mart#69. In this episode of Startup Savant Podcast, Ethan interviews Rachel Krupa, founder of The Goods Mart. Rachel shares her experience of reinventing the beloved convenience store by offering better-for-you products. She discusses the importance of location in the retail and food industry and trusting your gut as an entrepreneur. Rachel also talks about her journey of balancing her PR agency, Krupa Consulting, with The Goods Mart, and how she redefined her definition of success.The Goods Mart Links: https://www.thegoodsmart.com/https://www.instagram.com/rachkrupa/https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelkrupa/Startup Savant L...2023-07-1247 min
Startup SavantBuilding a 8 Million User Community: Stocktwits CEO, Rishi Khanna#68: Rishi Khanna, CEO of Stocktwits, joins the podcast to discuss the trials and triumphs of user-generated communities. They discuss the recent Reddit API turmoil, how Rishi’s role as CEO helped facilitate Stocktwits’ growth to over 8 million users, and the secret behind building an activated user community you can monetize.Stocktwits Links: https://stocktwits.com/https://stocktwits.com/rkhannahttps://twitter.com/rkhannahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rishikhanna/Startup Savant Links:https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@StartupSavantPodcast/https://www.instagram.com/startupsavantpodcast/https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-savant/
2023-07-0551 min
Startup SavantBreaking Into Prisons...as a New Market: Pelipost#67. On this episode of the Startup Savant Podcast, Ethan interviews Joe Calderon, founder, and CEO of Pelipost. Joe's mother's incarceration ignited the idea for Pelipost, a print-on-demand photo company that serves families of incarcerated individuals across the US. Joe discusses the challenges of starting Pelipost while being self-funded and facing competition. The episode also delves into the importance of effective communication with facilities and the power of a strong social media strategy.Pelipost Links: https://www.pelipost.com/https://www.instagram.com/pelipostapp/https://www.tiktok.com/@peliposthttps://twitter.com/pelipostappStartup Savant Links: ht...2023-06-2840 min
Startup SavantWill Voice End the Smartphone Era? John Goscha of Native Voice#66: John Goscha, founder and CEO of Native Voice, joins Ethan to discuss how his startup harmonizes various AI assistants. John highlights how voice assistants like Siri and Alexa need to focus on quality user experience to succeed in the ambient computing era. He also predicts that devices like headphones will be integrated with voice assistants to enable seamless human-device interaction.Native Voice Links: https://www.nativevoice.ai/https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-goscha-548000b/ jgoscha@nativevoice.aiStartup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@StartupSavantPodcast/https://www.instagram.com/startupsavantpodcast/https://www...2023-06-2152 min
Startup SavantAnyone Can Be a Venture Capitalist with Sweater Ventures#65: On this episode of Startup Savant Podcast, we hear from Jesse Randall, founder of Sweater Ventures, about his journey to create a venture capital fund that is open to anyone, regardless of wealth or accreditation status. He explains how the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), once created to protect everyday people from investment scams, has now become outdated and condescending towards smart individuals who are not wealthy. Jesse also shares how a bold marketing choice early on helped the startup to build a 60,000 person waitlist.Sweater Ventures Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sweaterceo/https://www.s...2023-06-1454 min
Startup SavantDefying the Corporate Comfort Zone: Andrew Jamison of Extend#64: In this episode of the podcast, we speak with Andrew Jamison, co-founder of Extend, a platform that enables businesses to issue and manage digital credit cards. Jamison shares his journey from leaving the corporate world of American Express to embarking on entrepreneurship. He recounts his experience implementing solutions for corporate clients in SAP consulting and developing an interest in payments while working at Amex. Jamison explains that the idea for Extend came from identifying a gap in the market for a solution that would capture spend, reconciliation, and expense management, particularly for the middle market. Jamison also touches on...2023-06-0749 min
Startup SavantCEO of SCORE on Making the Most Out of Mentorship#63. On this episode of Startup Savant Podcast Bridget Weston, CEO of SCORE, shares her insights on business mentorship. SCORE is a nationwide network of over 10,000 volunteers that offers free one-to-one mentorship, workshops, and assistance with business plans to small business owners across the US. Weston discusses the importance of goal-setting, clear communication, and having skin in the game for success. She also explains how SCORE is using AI to better connect small business owners with mentors who meet their needs. The episode highlights SCORE's track record of success in helping start over 30,000 new businesses and add over 82,000 jobs last...2023-05-3145 min
Startup SavantNavigating API Vulnerabilities: Escape's Path to Startup Success#62: Ethan chats with Tristan Kalos and Antoine Carossio, the co-founders of the cybersecurity startup Escape. The main objective of Escape is to assist companies in developing secure GraphQL applications by identifying and resolving any security concerns in their API. Tristan and Antoine share how they first met and how their unique skills contributed to the development of Escape. The group discusses their research and development process for Escape and how a research paper inspired their algorithm. Tristan and Antoine discuss their successful recruitment strategies and hiring process for engineers. They explain how their early strategic marketing led to a...2023-05-2447 min
Startup SavantHow to Build a Team That Can Take on the World with Linkby#61: Adrian Fagerlund and Ethan discuss Linkby, a global two-sided marketplace connecting advertisers and premium publishers. They explore Linkby's role in facilitating this relationship and their plans for future expansion. Their conversation also touches on the other co-founders, Chris and Andrew, their roles, and the group dynamic as a team. Adrian gives Ethan a glimpse at Linkby’s unique hiring process.Mention the Startup Savant podcast for free services on Linkby!Linkby Links: https://linkby.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianfagerlund/https://www.linkedin.com/company/linkby/Startup Savant Links: https://startupsavant.com...2023-05-1748 min
Startup SavantFrom Zero to $8.3 Billion: How Tipalti's Founder Created a Payment Giant#60: Chen Amit joins Ethan to chat about his fintech startup, Tipalti, a global, scalable, and holistic payables automation system. Chen recalls the process of creating Tipalti and deciding to start as a one-man show. The pair discuss what factors led to Tipalti’s success and growth, how skills from Chen’s former poker career are useful for business, and his evolutions of leadership. Chen also provides valuable insight on handling difficult situations, creating a high-quality team, and knowing when to say no or walk away.Tipalti Links: https://tipalti.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/tipalti/ https...2023-05-1051 min
Startup SavantUnlocking the Potential of Virtual Fashion with Seamm#59: Marina Martianova joins Ethan to discuss her innovative web3 digital fashion startup, Seamm, a startup that produces virtual replicas of physical fashions to be utilized in the metaverse, in tandem with fashion houses. The pair chat about the future of the metaverse, refining an investor pitch, and building Seamm as a two-sided marketplace. Seamm Links: https://www.seamm.io/https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-martianova-84198810a/Startup Savant Links:https://startupsavant.com/podcasthttps://www.youtube.com/@StartupSavantPodcast/https://www.instagram.com/startupsavantpodcast/https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-savant/
2023-05-0331 min
Startup SavantFinding Your Startup's 'Why' with Andy Choi of Do Good Points#58: Andy Choi joins the podcast chat about his mission-driven startup and how he found the 'why' behind his company. Andy is the founder of Do Good Points, a nonprofit and tech startup hybrid that offers a rewards system for charitable donations incentivizing people to give back to their communities.Check out the Cashing Out podcast: https://cashingout.exitwise.com/In this episode we dive into: How Do Good Points leveraged data to create a hyper-targeted customer baseWhy as a founder you should be searching for solutions, not problemsThe value of Effective AltruismDo G...2023-04-2650 min
Startup SavantNailing Product-Market Fit & Bringing Back the Landline with Community Phone#57: James Graham joins Ethan to chat about his telecom startup, Community Phone which provides cell and landline service to users all across America. The pair have a riveting conversation about product market fit, the necessity of experimentation, and how you can generate unique startup ideas in order to disrupt the marketplace.In this episode we dive into:The importance of product market fitWhy James asks himself simple questions and allows himself to be confusedCommunity Phone's experience in Y-CombinatorCommunity Phone Links:https://www.communityphone.org/https://www.instagram.com/communityphoneco/https://www.linkedin.com...2023-04-1949 min
Startup SavantPivoting to Survive: How a Cross-Country Move Saved GigFinesse#56: Mir Hwang is the CEO and Co-Founder of GigFinesse, a platform that connects music artists with venues to the benefit of both parties. Mir is an NYU alumni who utilized their extensive entrepreneurial support system to build the startup into what it is today.In this episode we dive into:Going from app to desktop due to consumer demandThe choice to move from New York to Austin during the pandemicLeaving medical school to pursue entrepreneurshipGigFinesse Links: https://www.gigfinesse.com/https://www.linkedin.com/company/gigfinesse/https://www.instagram.com/gigfinesse/Startup S...2023-04-1248 min
Startup SavantCombatting Political Divisiveness with Annafi Wahed of The Flip Side#55: Annafi Wahed joins Ethan to discuss her political newsletter and social media platform, The Flip Side, which uses “equal bias” in order to explore both liberal and conservative perspectives. The pair chat about the polarization of American politics today, cultivating an audience by utilizing incentives as well as self-created luck, and the dire need for balanced discussion in America’s divided political landscape. In this episode we dive into: Annafi's journey from corporate America to politicsHow The Flip Side is actively combatting political divisiveness in the USWhy creating your own luck is crucial for foundersThe Flip...2023-04-0549 min
Startup SavantFrom Wealthfront to Daffy: Adam Nash's Journey From CEO to Founder#53: Adam Nash is the co-founder and CEO of Daffy. With an extensive background in Silicon Valley, Nash previously served as CEO of Wealthfront, VP at LinkedIn as well as Dropbox, and Director at eBay. In addition to his role at Daffy, he is also an angel investor and board member at companies such as Acorns and Shift.Visit Daffy.org/AdamNash/invite for a discount at Daffy!In this episode we dive into: How business model influences company cultureThe key differences between founder and leadership rolesHow Adam uses Twitter and blogging to ideate Da...2023-03-2253 min
Startup SavantFinding a Market Opportunity and Going For it with Sufian Chowdhury of Kinetik#52: Founder and CEO, Sufian Chowdhury joins the podcast to discuss his fast growing and essential startup, Kinetik. Committed to serving the underserved, Kinetik is a non-emergency medical platform which connects patients on medicare or medicaid with transportation services. Sufian dives deep into the logistics of Kinetik, including the origins of Kinetik, how he gained his clientele and the funding of his business. He also proves valuable insight into the significance of mentorship, networking, and removing ego from the process of building a business.In this episode we dive into: The fundraising power of being a mission-driven s...2023-03-1553 min
Startup SavantBuilding a Better Freelance Marketplace with Simone May of Clutch#51: Co-Founder and CTO, Simone May joins the podcast to discuss her innovative digital marketing freelancing platform, Clutch. Clutch connects businesses who need social media marketing and web design support to college student creators who are able to easily keep up with trends and assist clients meet their marketing goals. Simone breaks down the mission of Clutch, the future of the gig economy, how to make a killer survey, and more!Clutch Links:- https://www.thatsclutch.com/- https://www.instagram.com/thatsclutch_com/Startup Savant Links:- https...2023-03-0841 min
Startup SavantBuilding Your Startup's PR Strategy with Lexington PR#47: Suki Mulberg Altamirano is the founder and CEO of Lexington Public Relations. She initially began doing PR in the beauty industry at KENZO and Elizabeth Arden, but after a period of burnout, Suki decided to go independent and start her own company. In addition to Lexington PR, Suki is also a partner at PressReady, which works to provide newer companies and startups with the tools they need to craft their brand and begin DIY PR. In this episode we dive into: The importance of PR and how your startup should start telling its storyEstablishing your value prop...2023-02-0843 min
Startup SavantThe Fintech Startup Getting Creators Paid: Tony Tran of Lumanu#46: Tony Tran is the founder and CEO of Lumanu, a company working to build the financial infrastructure needed for our modern day creative economy. Lumanu currently has over 40,000 users and has raised $12 million in their Series A. Tony studied computer science at MIT and initially began working for big name companies like Google, McKinsey, and Booz Allen, but after learning about the difficulties freelancers and creatives face when billing for their work, Tony changed gears and created Lumanu. In this episode we dive into: Why billing can be challenging for freelancers and contractorsHow to make a reje...2023-02-0147 min
Startup SavantPivot: The Tech-Driven Solution to Quitting Tobacco with David S. Utley, M.D.#45: David Utley, M.D. is the founder and CEO of Pivot, a digital health company helping users eliminate their tobacco use. Pivot has raised over $40 million, and David has over 100 published US patents. David is a seasoned entrepreneur and had previously been a founder at BARRX, which raised $70+ million in VC funding before being acquired in 2012. He has also served on the board of numerous startups and continues to engineer new solutions towards improving health outcomes.In this episode we dive into: Establishing partnerships with employers and large companiesWhy you may want to consider hiring an e...2023-01-2547 min
Startup SavantFlyFin's AI Tax Revolution With Jaideep Singh#44: Jaideep Singh is the founder and CEO FlyFin, a VC backed startup helping automate finances for freelancers and business owners. While he initially began working as a software engineer, he later went on to become a founder of various companies and received an MBA from Wharton. One of his first startups, Spock, worked to create a database of over 1 Billion people to help companies find talent. Jaideep is a serial entrepreneur and says the first step for validating a startup idea involves asking whether you are working on a problem you personally care about.In this episode...2023-01-1845 min
Startup SavantIs the Future Free? With Josh Cliffords of FreeWater#43: Josh Cliffords is the founder and CEO of FreeWater, the world’s first free beverage company. Josh has founded numerous companies, but in 2018, he decided to tackle the world’s water crisis and hasn’t looked back. Josh’s ‘negatively-priced’ business model leverages advertising to make goods and services pay for themselves, and while he is currently focused on growing FreeWater, he has plans to continue expanding this business model into new industries.In this episode we dive into: Their ‘negatively-priced’ business modelDisrupting industry juggernautsDeveloping new skills as a founder___________________________________________________Transcripts, episode summaries, and more can be f...2023-01-1152 min
Startup SavantBuilding Your Entrepreneurial Pain Tolerance: Parker Graham of Finotta#42: Former NFL player turned entrepreneur Parker Graham joins Ethan to discuss his startup Finotta, which offers banks a digital platform geared towards improving their customers’ financial health. Parker details his journey from a professional athlete to a startup founder. He discusses how his first company’s initial failures shaped his approach to creating Finotta and ultimately raising over $3 million dollars from one of his early customers.In this episode we dive into: Overcoming difficult obstacles as a founderBuilding company culture by establishing valuesThe importance of a founder’s pain tolerance threshold_____________________Transcripts, episode summari...2023-01-0457 min
Startup SavantStrategic Growth & The Danger of Vanity Metrics with Kyle York of York IE#41: Kyle York is the founder and CEO of York IE. Kyle has advised and invested in 100+ startups and is a board member for several companies. Kyle initially began working in EdTech, and after developing an interest in the tech space, he became the CRO at Dyn, a software company that was later acquired by Oracle. In addition to York IE, Kyle is a co-founder of York Real Estate and York Athletics.In this episode we dive into: The difference between York IE and traditional VC firmsThe market in approachDefining success for yourselfVanity metrics & their impact on s...2022-12-1450 min
Startup SavantThe Guide to Being a CEO with Matt Blumberg#40. Matt Blumberg is the Founder and CEO of Bolster, a company working to help startups scale by pairing them with executive talent and board members. In addition to running Bolster, Matt is the author of Startup CEO: A field guide to scaling up your business, and he runs a popular entrepreneurship blog, StartupCEO.com. Matt has worked with many companies throughout the years, and he has continued to write books dedicated to entrepreneurship.In this episode we dive into:What is and isn't the role of a CEOHow to scale yourself as a leaderThe importance of...2022-12-0744 min
Startup SavantWhat is a Fractional CFO? With Anthony Nitsos#38: Anthony Nitsos joins Annaka and Ethan to discuss startup Finances. As a fractional CFO, Anthony works with startups to build their financial systems and ensure that they have the correct figures to make informed decisions. Anthony recommends startups put in the work building a strong financial system in their early stages to help facilitate growth and success.In this episode we dive into: The value of hiring a fractional CFOCommon pitfalls for young startups building their financial systemsKey areas startups need to focus on during the early stages of their company______Transcripts, episode s...2022-11-3045 min
Startup SavantSocial Media Advertising in a Post iOS 14.5 World: Proxima#38: Alex Song is the CEO and founder of Proxima, which helps brands boost their marketing abilities by using big data and Proxima’s AI-powered software. Alex began his career in finance, but eventually he decided to start his own business. He is no stranger to entrepreneurship and has confounded many companies over the years. While Proxima works to help other companies leverage data to improve marketing, Alex initially built Proxima to help solve problems he had been experiencing with his own ventures. In this episode we dive into: Changes in the advertising industry due to iOS 14.5The...2022-11-1650 min
Startup SavantWhy Resilience is Crucial to a Startup's Success: Ksenia Yudina of UNest#37: Ksenia Yudina joins Annaka and Ethan to discuss her journey founding UNest, a fintech app designed to help families invest in their kids’ futures. Ksenia walks us through the problem she saw with traditional options for families, and she shares her story innovating the finance industry, an industry that is often reluctant to change.In this episode we dive into: Innovating an industryUsing direct feedback to create changesAcquiring another companyFundraising and the doubt that can accompany a new founderRead the full episode summary at StartupSavant.com/podcast!
2022-11-0943 min
Startup SavantHow to 4x Retail Partnerships: Alex French of Bizzy Coffee#33: Alex French is the CEO and founder of Bizzy Coffee. Frustrated by the lack of cold brew coffee available in retail stores, Alex got to work developing what would become the #1 best-selling cold brew coffee on Amazon. Alex leveraged his previous experience at General Mills to better understand the beverage market and ultimately scaled his product from an apartment creation to a profitable business venture. In this episode we dive into: How Bizzy Coffee quadrupled their retail partnerships in a yearThe best tactics for securing funding for a CPG companyDeveloping a competitive edge in a saturated ma...2022-10-1254 min
Startup SavantTips for Navigating Economic Downturn From Venture Capitalist Andrew Gershfeld#32: Andrew Gershfeld is a partner at Flint Capital, a VC firm that has invested in big-name companies such as Source, WalkMe, and Flo. Andrew began his entrepreneurial journey in management consulting and eventually led his own startup. Andrew emphasizes the importance of listening and growing empathy while working with startup founders.In this episode we dive into: Andrew’s journey from a scientist to a startup founder and VC investorHow investors approach economic downturnsStrategies for preparing for and navigating economic downturnRead the full podcast summary on Startup Savant.Connect with Andrew on Lin...2022-10-0532 min
Startup SavantUsing Entrepreneurship as a Catalyst for Change: MPOWERD#30: John Salzinger and Seungah Jeong join Annaka and Ethan to talk about MPOWERD, a B Corp whose signature product, the solar-powered Luci Light, aims to help create a more sustainable future while providing light to those without access to electricity. John and Seungah share their story building MPOWERD and how to use business as a tool for change.This episode we dive into: The importance Trademarks and patents How creating an impact can be a powerful motivatorUsing corporate social responsibility (CSR) to form partnershipsFor a full episode summary and transcript, visit startupsavant.com/podcast!2022-09-2147 min
Startup SavantThe Path to Y Combinator with Juan Andrade of Rebank#29: Juan Andrade joins Annaka and Ethan to talk about Rebank, a startup-to-startup software company that provides young businesses with the financial operation systems needed to succeed. Juan discusses the importance of trial-and-error marketing and how his own issues at his previous job led him to conceptualize Rebank.This episode we dive into: Finding a target audience and understanding the problem you solveMarketing without an experienced marketerThe benefits of working with an accelerator and Juan’s experience at Y CombinatorFor the full episode summary, visit startupsavant.com/podcast!
2022-09-1452 min
Startup SavantThe Direct Tie Between Leadership and Scalability: Alex Iceman of Genium#28: Alex Iceman is a serial entrepreneur and, most recently, the founder and CEO of Genium, a tech startup that provides solutions for affordable, quality tech hiring on a global scale. Iceman is also an advisor at Hawaii-based accelerator, Blue Startups, and in his spare time works as a hockey referee for the NHL. In this episode we dive into: Hiring and vetting developers overseas Iceman's 'reverse pyramid' management style What hockey has taught Iceman about entrepreneurship His role as a startup advisor: what that means and how he got there Read the full episode summary at https://start...2022-08-3153 min
Startup SavantFinding Zappos' Wow Factor with Dr. Vik#27 BONUS EPISODE: This week, Annaka and Ethan are joined by Dr. David Vik or 'Doc' to discuss how he helped Zappos find their 'wow factor' and his top advice for startups looking to establish their competitive edge. Doc is a former chiropractor turned startup advisor, investor, and expert known most prominently for his role in the success of Zappos. In this special episode we dive into: How Doc helped Zappos find their 'wow-factor'How your startup can find it's winning strategyThe flywheel and its importance in startup marketingThe main takeaways from his book, The Culture SecretRe...2022-08-251h 02
Startup SavantNook Co-Founders on Why You Shouldn't Be Afraid to Pivot#26: Chadwick Carlson and Marc Gingras join Annaka and Ethan to talk about Nook, a software company working to give users better agency over their scheduling through their calendar tool. Their first product, Nook Calendar, was Product Hunt’s #1 Product of the Day. Chad and Marc walk us through their decision to pivot their business, their philosophy for merging innovation with familiarity, and the importance of building strong teams that can succeed.This episode we dive into: Learning to pivot and navigate a changing environmentSuccess on Product HuntThe importance of building a great team and why CEOs sho...2022-08-2457 min
Startup SavantSmart Money & Using Data to Tackle Alzheimer's: Luis Valente of iLofLuís Valente is the CEO and founder of iLof, a health tech startup using photonic and AI to gather biological data that will be used to improve clinical trials and drug discovery. Luís has an engineering background and prior to iLof he founded a computer hardware manufacturing company.This episode we dive into: How they are using data to help companies develop treatments for illnesses such as Alzheimer'sBuilding strong co-founder relationshipsWhat Luis calls "smart money" and choosing the right investorsIterating startup ideas and building your networkFull episode notes at: https://startupsavant.com/podc...2022-08-171h 01
Startup SavantDisrupting the Rideshare Industry with Joshua Sear of EmpowerJoshua Sear is the CEO and founder of Empower, a software platform that targets drivers as their primary customer, taking on the rideshare giants Uber and Lyft.In this episode we dive into: How Joshua created Empower What sets this SaaS startup apart from Uber and Lyft Innovating an established business model and disrupting an industry Finding unorthodox ways to connect and appeal to your target market Read the full episode summary and notes on https://startupsavant.com/startup-savants-podcast/episodes/empowerConnect with us on social (@startupsavant) on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
2022-08-1057 min
Startup SavantHow to Build a Business With Staying Power: Andrew Hoag of TeampayAndrew Hoag is the CEO and founder of Teampay, a startup working to simplify businesses’ financial processes. Andrew began his career working for the National Science Foundation Internet, and he later went on to work at NASA. Following his time at NASA, Andrew started numerous ventures. Today, he serves as an angel investor for startups and has raised over $21 Million for Teampay.Teampay links: https://www.teampay.co/https://www.linkedin.com/company/team-labs-inc./Episode Notes How Andrew’s own experience and observations led him to create Teampay [1:16]Gett...2022-08-031h 00
Startup SavantThe Entrepreneur Mindset with Troy Bannister of Particle HealthTroy Bannister is the CEO and founder of Particle Health, a startup working to revolutionize data sharing across the healthcare industry. Troy’s experience with patient care began while working as an EMT. He considered pursuing a career in medicine but ultimately went on to work in the healthcare VC space. Troy’s experience within the healthcare industry showed him the difficulties associated with trying to transfer patient data from one healthcare system to another, and he ultimately decided to create Particle Health in order to innovate the digital healthcare space.Episode Notes From working as an...2022-07-2757 min
Startup SavantEntrepreneurship on Her Own Terms: Alisa Pospekhova of KindrootAlisa Pospekhova is the CEO and founder of Kindroot, a supplement company fusing the benefits of herbs into a lozenges that taste like candy. Alisa has a background in global brand marketing, and she used her marketing skills to develop the vision for her company. Alisa always wanted to start her own company, and she developed Kindroot to revamp the lozenges industry, an industry that has seen relatively few changes in the past. When she struggled to find partners willing to manufacture her product, she brought her vision to life and manufactured it herself.Episode Notes 2022-07-201h 06
Startup SavantBuilding an Epic Company Culture With James Avery of KevelJames Avery is the founder and CEO of Kevel, which helps users launch their own custom ad platforms. After working as a consultant, James saw an opportunity to build a platform that helps businesses take control over their advertisements. Although it began as a side project, Kevel now works with brands such as Klarna, Ticketmaster, and Yelp.Episode NotesFrom consulting to building a software focused on advertising [1:02]Creating the systems needed to allow a company to thrive and prosper in the digital age [3:15]The mindset required to construct a sustainable...2022-07-1356 min
Startup SavantRaising Venture Capital 101 with Jules Miller of Mindset VenturesJules Miller is a partner at Mindset Ventures, an international venture capital firm that invests in early-stage enterprise software companies. Prior to working in venture capital, Jules also founded her own company and worked at a variety of startups. She has an extensive background in blockchain and has been in the venture capital space for quite some time.Full Show NotesEpisode Notes From founder to venture capitalist [1:12]Angel investors vs venture capitalists … what's the difference? [3:38]Why did Jules decide to become a VC investor after creating her own sta...2022-06-2955 min
Startup SavantWhat is an Anti-CRM? with Reuben Swartz of MimiranReuben Swartz is the founder and CEO of Mimiran, a CRM (customer relationship manager) specifically designed for solo consultants. Reuben worked as a consultant himself and wanted a tool for managing clients. Although these tools were abundant for large enterprises, he could not find a tool that met his needs and was made for a one-man team. So, Reuben built the tool himself and created Mimiran. Episode Notes Reuben’s story creating his own business [1:00]“There's a right tool for the right situation” so you don’t need to compete with the multimillion dollar com...2022-06-221h 06
Startup SavantThe Importance of Focus with Devon Copley of AvatourDevon Copley is the founder and CEO of Avatour, a company working to share real places in real time without the need for travel. While at Nokia, Devon worked on a similar product bringing VR technology to cameras. However, Nokia ended up scrapping the project and making cuts to the team. Devon, having had experience working at a variety of startups, chose to continue pursuing his vision for VR technology and created Avatour.Episode Notes Finding the right cofounder to partner with can be essential to success [4:11]A clear division of responsibilities is k...2022-06-151h 11
Startup SavantBody Language is a Business Tool with Rachel Cossar of Virtual SapiensRachel Cossar is the CEO and founder of Virtual Sapiens, a SaaS platform that serves as a communication coach helping customers better use nonverbal communication techniques. Rachel previously worked as a professional rhythmic gymnast before becoming a professional dancer. While working as a ballerina, Rachel sustained an injury that forced her to give up dancing and find a new path. She later used the skills she learned as an athlete and dancer to create Virtual Sapiens. Learn more about Virtual Sapiens and watch Rachel's Ted Talk on Reinvention.Episode Notes From athlete to bu...2022-06-0859 min
Startup SavantHow a Year-Old Startup Secured $124M in Funding: Christine de Wendel of SundayChristine de Wendel is the founder and CEO of Sunday, which uses QR-code technology to improve the payment process at restaurants while helping generate more revenue and tips. Within Sunday's first year as a company, they’ve raised $124 Million and currently operate across five different countries. Christine previously had experience scaling various startups and has leveraged that experience to help lead the Sunday team to astronomical growth. Episode Notes How restaurant norm changes during COVID-19 led to Sunday’s conception [1:54]Obtaining $124 million across two rounds of funding [6:08]Acquiring competitors to combine forces...2022-04-2746 min
Startup SavantKaylin Marcotte of JIGGY: The Puzzle Startup Empowering Female ArtistsKaylin Marcotte is the founder and CEO of JIGGY, a company at the intersection of jigsaw puzzles and artwork. While working as the first employee at theSkimm, a digital media company focused on bringing information to audiences in bite-size pieces, Kaylin discovered a passion for Jigsaw puzzles. She later combined her startup experience with her love of jigsaw puzzles to create JIGGY. JIGGY’s designs highlight the work of female artists, and their puzzles can be found in various retailers across the country.Visit JIGGY at https://jiggypuzzles.com/Episode Notes “What would it lo...2022-04-201h 18
Startup SavantTurning an iPhone Into an AR-Powered Foot Scanner with Artem Semjanow of NeatsyArtem Semjanow is the founder and CEO of Neatsy, a B2B company that helps customers find their ideal shoe size using their smartphone’s camera. Artem previously led a machine learning team at Prisma Labs. This experience along with his background in economics empowered him to create Neatsy and change the future of online footwear retail.Episode Notes How flat feet lead Artem and his brother to develop Neatsy [0:30]The process of trying various business models before ultimately choosing a B2B (business to business) model [5:28]Neatsy’s first major hurdl...2022-04-131h 05
Startup SavantThe Future of Blockchain, NFTs, and Angel Investment with Joe Roets of DragonchainJoe Roets is the founder and CEO of Dragonchain, a blockchain-as-a-service provider that works with companies to tackle problems using blockchain technology. A self-proclaimed software guy, Joe has been in the tech space for quite some time and has led multiple ventures. His company Dragonchain originated within The Walt Disney Company and now operates as an independent entity that plans to help the world take advantage of the benefits blockchain has to offer. Episode Notes Jumping through hoops to get approval for an open-source project [7:00]Quantifying behavior and building an objective historical record usi...2022-04-061h 22
Startup SavantAccessible Justice with Sonja Ebron of Courtroom5Sonja Ebron is the founder and CEO of Courtroom5, a SaaS startup that assists users trying to navigate the legal system. Having started two other companies prior to Courtroom5, Sonja is not new to the startup sphere. Sonja’s own personal experience in court propelled her to create a product that strives to increase access to justice. Although she is not a lawyer herself, Sonja has a PhD in electrical engineering and draws on her academic and engineering background to develop the tools needed to help others tackle the complexities of the legal system. Connect with Courtroom5 on...2022-03-231h 05
Startup SavantThe Power of Backing Yourself with Steven Edwards of Premier VirtualSteve Edwards is the founder and CEO of Premier Virtual, a virtual platform where recruiters can host online job fairs from the comfort of their own home. A self-proclaimed sales guy, Steve worked various roles in the sales industry and moved his way up to a VP of sales before starting Premiere Virtual. Steve is also a veteran and credits the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division with developing his discipline and his approach to leadership.Episode Notes Who is Steve Edwards, and how did he start Premiere Virtual? [1:02]Transitioning to an entirely-virtual environment and...2022-03-091h 18
Startup SavantThe Ins and Outs of a Family-Run Startup with DogLogLynn Marks and Gideon Marks, a daughter-father duo, join Annaka and Ethan to share their story building DogLog, a family-run startup that allows users to log their dog’s activity and daily health data with their smartphone. Lynn recalls how her family’s own struggles lead them to develop the app which now has 100,000+ downloads. Lynn and Gideon walk us through the process of starting a company with your family, building organic customers, bootstrap funding, and finding a way to monetize your product. Lynn Marks is the President and Co-founder of DogLog, a data-centric app that helps pet o...2022-03-021h 03
Startup SavantCombatting Stress Culture with Sol Broady of LeiloSol walks us through the R&D process of creating his beverage and how he forged partnerships to grow and expand his relaxation brand, Leilo.Sol Broady is the founder and CEO of Leilo, a non-alcoholic relaxation beverage. Sol created his company while obtaining his undergraduate degree at Columbia University and leveraged the university community to build his team and launch his relaxation brand. Leilo Links: https://www.leilo.com/https://www.instagram.com/drinkleilo/https://twitter.com/drinkleiloTime Stamps: Who is Sol Broady, and...2022-02-231h 28
Startup SavantStartup Success as a Non-Technical Founder with Lizia Santos of CitycattLizia Santos is the founder and CEO of CityCatt, a platform that helps travelers discover authentic experiences through the help of local guides (known as catts). Lizia previously worked as a journalist and used her research skills, along with her family’s experience in the hospitality industry, to create Citycatt and build a world-wide community of influencers that are ready to help travelers explore.Become a Catt or book a trip on https://www.citycatt.com/Time StampsWho is Lizia Santos, and why did she start her travel-focused company Citycatts? [1:00]Fi...2022-02-161h 12
Startup SavantSabrina Noorani of ClearForMe on Changing Your MindsetSabrina Noorani is the founder and CEO of ClearForMe, a SaaS (software as a service) company that helps customers learn about the ingredients that are in their cosmetic products. Before starting ClearForMe, Noorani worked as the only female derivatives trader at NYSE, and she leveraged her expertise working with data to create her company that now partners with big-name beauty brands like Ulta and Credo Beauty. During our interview, Sabrina shares some advice for other entrepreneurs looking to turn their ideas into an impact.Learn more about ClearForMe at https://clearforme.com/Time S...2022-02-0949 min
Startup SavantIntroducing Startup SavantsGet more exciting entrepreneur content and podcast exclusives on StartupSavant.com. Watch Startup Savant founder interviews on YouTube and follow us on social: Instagram TwitterLinkedInOr, for small business resources, tools, and guides visit HowtoStartanLLC.com.
2022-02-0109 min