Episodes

  • Building Thriving Startup Communities Through Peer Networks with Chris Heivly

    Building Thriving Startup Communities Through Peer Networks with Chris Heivly
    Oct 14 2024
    Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Entrepreneurship is often seen as a solitary pursuit, however, building a thriving startup ecosystem requires more than just individual grit—it needs community, trust, and a deep understanding of complex systems. Many entrepreneurs struggle to find the right support network, and too often, local communities fail to create the conditions for entrepreneurial success. So, how do we move from isolated efforts to a collaborative, vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem? On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, Jarie Bolander sits down with Chris Heivly, co-founder of Raleigh Durham Startup Week and author of Build the Fort, to dive deep into the essence of community building for startups. Chris, a seasoned zero-to-one expert and investor, shares his unique perspective on how successful entrepreneurial communities don’t follow the traditional hierarchical systems that govern most organizations. Instead, they thrive when they're built on networks of peers, reducing friction for entrepreneurs and fostering an environment where ideas and connections flourish organically. Chris recounts his own journey, traveling the world to study various startup ecosystems, and reveals the power of small, consistent actions—what he calls "success through a thousand nudges"—that can transform entire cities into hubs for innovation. From mentoring to running startup events, Chris emphasizes the importance of giving back and building a legacy that inspires the next generation of founders. If you're an entrepreneur, community leader, or simply someone interested in how startups can shape local economies, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Learn how you can reduce friction, cultivate trust, and help create an ecosystem where entrepreneurs don’t just survive—they thrive. Tune in now to discover the building blocks of a successful startup community and why your role in it matters more than you might think. Links Chris Heivly LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    44 mins
  • Scaling Smart: The Essential Role of Accounting in Startup Success

    Scaling Smart: The Essential Role of Accounting in Startup Success
    Oct 2 2024
    Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In the world of startups, founders are often laser-focused on product development, leaving crucial back-office tasks like accounting as an afterthought. Yet, ignoring this foundational piece of the puzzle can lead to disastrous consequences when it's time to scale or raise funding. Without proper systems in place, businesses risk losing investor trust, facing compliance issues, or simply running into operational chaos. But how can entrepreneurs find a balance between driving their product forward and keeping their financial house in order? In this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos, Jarie Bolander chats with the co-founders of KBA Partners—Kasia Rzepnikowska, Angel Zhao, and Barbara Legnitto Hansson—who turned their decades of experience in high-growth companies like New Relic into a boutique firm that helps startups navigate the complex world of finance and accounting. Drawing on their unique backgrounds in taking companies from fledgling startups to billion-dollar valuations, they offer actionable advice on building a financial infrastructure that’s not just about staying compliant but enabling growth. This conversation dives deep into how early-stage companies can avoid the common pitfalls of financial mismanagement, why accounting should be seen as an asset rather than a burden, and how having the right systems in place early can provide the peace of mind needed to focus on what really matters—growing your business. From setting up basic bookkeeping to managing the complexities of scaling, these experts share practical, real-world insights that every entrepreneur needs to hear. If you’re a founder who wants to sleep better at night knowing your financials are rock solid or an entrepreneur navigating the tricky waters of startup growth, you won’t want to miss this episode. Hit play and learn how to lay the groundwork for long-term success with guidance from industry veterans who’ve been there and done it. Tune in now and start securing your startup’s future! Links Barbara Legnitto Hansson LinkedIn Angel Zhao LinkedIn Kasia Rzepnikowska on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    42 mins
  • The Future of Fitness: AI, Customer Focus, and Scaling with Tim Green

    The Future of Fitness: AI, Customer Focus, and Scaling with Tim Green
    Sep 23 2024
    Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In the crowded fitness industry, gyms and studios face the constant challenge of standing out and retaining loyal members. With increased competition, changing customer expectations, and the complexity of managing day-to-day operations, business owners need more than just passion – they need precision and smart technology to succeed. On this episode of The Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, host Jarie Bolander talks with Tim Green, COO of TeamUp, about how fitness businesses can leverage technology to streamline their services and enhance customer experiences. Tim shares his journey from building a marketing business to transforming TeamUp into one of the leading fitness management platforms, catering to thousands of businesses worldwide. He explains how focusing on customer needs and automating key processes, such as scheduling and memberships, can make the difference between thriving and surviving. As the fitness industry shifts post-COVID, Tim offers practical advice on how businesses can use digital tools to reduce manual work, foster stronger client relationships, and scale efficiently without burning out. If you’re a fitness business owner looking to simplify your operations or an entrepreneur interested in the intersection of tech and service-based industries, this conversation is a must-listen. Discover how embracing customer-centric technology and data-driven decisions can help your business stand out in an increasingly competitive market. Tune in to learn how to combine human touch with cutting-edge tools to keep your fitness community engaged and growing. Links Tim Green on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    41 mins
  • Building Trust in the Digital Age: The Evolution of Authentic Recommendations with Eric Colbert

    Building Trust in the Digital Age: The Evolution of Authentic Recommendations with Eric Colbert
    Sep 12 2024
    Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In today's digital age, finding trustworthy recommendations is more challenging than ever. With countless fake reviews, paid endorsements, and the overwhelming noise of online opinions, it’s hard to know what advice you can truly rely on. This episode of the Entrepreneur Ethos podcast addresses this very problem. Host Jarie Bolander sits down with Eric Colbert, the co-founder of VouchVault and partner at Spark6, to explore how entrepreneurs can cut through the clutter and build trust in a world where authenticity is often in short supply. Eric’s journey is a fascinating one, starting from his days in the punk rock music scene to becoming a successful entrepreneur. His story is filled with valuable lessons, from navigating the complexities of global manufacturing to the strategic growth of a tech agency. In this conversation, Eric shares how these experiences have culminated in the creation of VouchVault—a platform designed to revolutionize how we discover and share recommendations by leveraging the power of trusted, word-of-mouth advice. If you're an entrepreneur struggling to make your mark or simply looking for ways to connect more authentically with your audience, this episode is for you. Eric offers actionable insights on building a brand that stands out in a saturated market, all while staying true to your values and vision. Don’t miss out on learning how to turn the challenge of finding reliable recommendations into an opportunity for growth and connection. Tune in now! Links Eric Colbert on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    45 mins
  • The Drive to Build: Grit, Passion, and Entrepreneurial Success with Marc Smookler

    The Drive to Build: Grit, Passion, and Entrepreneurial Success with Marc Smookler
    Aug 19 2024
    Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction Standing out requires more than just a great idea—it demands relentless drive, strategic vision, and a deep passion for building something meaningful. In this episode of the Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, host Jarie Bolander interviews Marc Smookler, a seasoned entrepreneur whose journey from investment banking to launching successful ventures offers a blueprint for modern entrepreneurship. Marc dives into his evolution from analyzing other businesses to becoming a hands-on creator, sharing the lessons learned and the grit required to succeed. Whether you’re just starting or looking to scale, Marc’s insights on aligning with the right people, embracing hard work, and staying committed to your vision are invaluable. If you’re searching for actionable strategies to boost your entrepreneurial success, this episode is a must-listen. Marc’s experience highlights the importance of matching energy with opportunity, and how a strong work ethic, coupled with a clear focus, can help you build a business that truly makes an impact. Don't miss out on learning how to harness your potential and create something that resonates in today’s competitive market. Tune in now to discover how to transform your entrepreneurial dreams into reality. Links Marc Smookler on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    37 mins
  • Thought Leadership, Storytelling, and Building a Lasting Entrepreneurial Legacy with Tom Marks

    Thought Leadership, Storytelling, and Building a Lasting Entrepreneurial Legacy with Tom Marks
    Aug 5 2024
    Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In today's digital landscape, standing out in a sea of content can be daunting. Many entrepreneurs need help to rise above the noise and connect with their audience meaningfully. The key to overcoming this challenge lies in mastering the art of storytelling. In this episode of the Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, host Jarie Bolander sits down with Tom Marks, a seasoned business leader and author of "The Second Best Business Book Ever Written," to uncover the secrets of effective storytelling. Tom Marks brings a wealth of experience from his career in advertising and marketing, sharing the fascinating story of his father's contribution to the success of Orville Redenbacher's Popping Corn. Through his journey, Tom emphasizes the importance of thought leadership built on wisdom, trust, honesty, ethics, and causes. Listeners will discover practical strategies to develop a compelling personal brand and create impactful content. Tom and Jarie delve into timeless lessons from ancient philosophers, illustrating how their teachings on rhetoric and persuasion are crucial in today's content-saturated world. Whether you're a small business owner or a corporate executive, this episode offers valuable insights on how to craft a narrative that truly resonates with your audience. Listen now to transform your brand and connect with your audience like never before. Links Tom Marks on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    41 mins
  • Building Entrepreneurial Success: Insights on Resilience, Networking, and Authenticity with Dan Gonzales

    Building Entrepreneurial Success: Insights on Resilience, Networking, and Authenticity with Dan Gonzales
    Jul 15 2024
    Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Stitcher | Overcast Support the Show. Get the AudioBook! AudioBook: Audible| Kobo| Authors Direct | Google Play | Apple Introduction In today’s fast-paced and highly competitive world, many aspiring entrepreneurs struggle tlöo carve out their niche and make a lasting impact. The challenge of building a standout brand, navigating complex startup ecosystems, and maintaining authenticity can seem insurmountable. In this episode of the Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, host Jarie Bolander sits down with Dan Gonzales, an author and seasoned podcast host, to explore these challenges and uncover the keys to entrepreneurial success. Dan’s journey from an uncertain young professional to a venture capital analyst and soon-to-be author with Penguin Random House SEA offers a wealth of insights and practical advice. Discover how resilience and authentic storytelling can transform your entrepreneurial journey. Learn about the importance of building meaningful connections and leveraging networks for startup success. Dan shares his firsthand experiences, highlighting the highs and lows of Silicon Valley’s dynamic startup culture. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of professional growth and stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of innovation. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how to build a brand that stands out and truly resonates with your audience. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from Dan’s unique perspective on thriving in a globally connected world. Listen now and elevate your entrepreneurial journey! Links Dan Gonzales on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    41 mins
  • Navigating Entrepreneurship, Personal Branding, and Purpose-Driven Growth with Bryan Wish

    Navigating Entrepreneurship, Personal Branding, and Purpose-Driven Growth with Bryan Wish
    Jun 24 2024
    Are you struggling to rise above the noise in a world saturated with content and competition? In this episode of the Entrepreneur Ethos podcast, Jarie Bolander sits with Bryan Wish, the founder of Arcbound, to discuss the critical importance of building a personal brand in today's digital age. Bryan shares his inspiring journey from a young writer to a successful entrepreneur dedicated to helping others tell their stories authentically. You'll hear about the challenges Bryan faced, including nearly running out of money and learning to listen to his intuition, and how these experiences shaped his approach to personal branding. This episode offers valuable insights into why trust and authenticity are more important than ever, especially for business leaders and entrepreneurs looking to make a meaningful impact. Tune in to discover actionable advice on developing a brand that resonates, creating impactful content, and navigating the complexities of personal and professional growth. Don't miss Bryan's unique perspective on the future of marketing and how you can stay ahead of the curve. Listen now to learn how to build a brand that stands out and truly connects with your audience. Links Bryan Wish on LinkedIn Keep In Touch Book or Blog or Twitter or LinkedIn or Get Story-Driven Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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    48 mins