The Innovation Conversation

SummaryIn this episode of The Innovation Conversation, Jonathan Zhou shares his remarkable path from architecture into entrepreneurship, and how he’s harnessing generative AI to transform the jewelry design process. Jonathan opens up about the obstacles he faced moving from traditional architecture to a tech-centric approach, what motivated him to start his business, and why persistence and adaptability are critical in the startup world. He also draws insightful parallels between his experiences in gliding and running a company, highlighting how both require knowing when to pivot and reassess goals to keep moving forward.TakeawaysJonathan’s background in architecture led him to experiment with generative AI.Transitioning to a tech-focused model was difficult due to industry resistance.He launched a jewelry design business to streamline and simplify the design process.Persistence was key to overcoming early hurdles in his entrepreneurial journey.Building the right team is essential for startup growth and success.Market research revealed a disconnect between designers and industry needs.Automation has vast potential to optimize traditional workflows in many sectors.Adaptability is crucial for navigating unpredictable business environments.Long runs act as a form of meditation for Jonathan, helping clear his mind.Understanding the underlying technology empowers better business decisions.Sound Bites"I wanted to build on the latest technology.""There is so much unexplored in that sector.""It was too complicated."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Jonathan Zhou and His Journey 05:39 Frustration with Architecture and the Birth of a Startup 10:34 Challenges of Launching a Multi-Faceted Business 15:53 Persistence and Adaptation in Entrepreneurship 20:37 Lessons from Gliding: Balancing Business and Life 21:37 Future Aspirations and Learning in TechSpecial MentionCheck out the Startup Summit in Lisbon this September, where 5,000+ founders, investors, and tech innovators will come together to explore the future of entrepreneurship and innovation. 👉 https://startupsummit.io🎟 Use code PODCAST for 50% off tickets when you register!

SummaryIn this engaging episode of The Innovation Conversation, Tash Rebuck shares her remarkable journey from acting to becoming a sought-after sales consultant. Tash discusses how her background in performance helped her navigate the frequent rejection that comes with sales, and why resilience and a positive mindset are so crucial. She dives into the power of personalization, the importance of listening over pitching, and how adapting to different personalities can make or break a deal. Tash also offers practical, motivating advice for new entrepreneurs, encouraging them to take action, embrace discomfort, and turn perceived weaknesses into strengths.TakeawaysTash Rebuck transitioned from acting into sales, leveraging her comfort with rejection.Sales is fundamentally a numbers game — persistence is essential.Adapting to different client personalities is critical for success.Personalization in outreach dramatically improves response rates.Listening to clients is far more effective than simply pitching.Good salespeople reframe their weaknesses into strengths.Maintaining a positive mindset is key to pushing through challenges.New entrepreneurs should focus on consistent, actionable steps to grow.Rejection is part of the process and can be a valuable indicator.Building genuine relationships leads to more sustainable sales outcomes.Sound Bites"Sales is a numbers game.""The no is a good thing.""Personalization is so key."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 00:00 Introduction to Tash Rebuck and Her Journey 02:45 From Acting to Sales: Embracing Rejection 05:37 The Monopoly Experience: A Unique Sales Journey 08:39 Transitioning from Traditional to Startup Sales 11:16 The Lightbulb Moment: Discovering Consulting 14:06 The Importance of Productive Hours in Sales 16:58 Overcoming the Fear of Rejection in Sales 20:16 The Importance of Personalization in Sales 24:48 Turning Weaknesses into Strengths in Sales 35:24 Three Golden Rules for Sales SuccessSpecial MentionCheck out the Startup Summit in Lisbon this September, where 5,000+ founders, investors, and innovators will gather to explore the future of startups, sales, and business growth. 👉 https://startupsummit.io🎟 Use code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off tickets when you register!

SummaryIn this conversation on The Innovation Conversation, Hunter Earls, a 17-year-old entrepreneur from Louisville, Kentucky, shares his remarkable journey into tech and startups. Hunter discusses his project Hashtag.ai, an innovative platform that lets users interact with historical figures through AI. He talks about the challenges of building his startup, the key lessons he’s learned so far, and why education and community play such important roles in his growth. Hunter also highlights how AI can transform education by saving teachers time and improving learning experiences, while sharing his goal to graduate college without debt as he continues to chase his entrepreneurial dreams.TakeawaysHunter is a 17-year-old entrepreneur from Kentucky, working on Hashtag.ai.Hashtag.ai allows people to interact with historical figures through AI conversations.The idea emerged from a high school class on ethics and philosophy.Hunter taught himself coding through personal projects and some school classes.It took him two months to build his first working AI model.Early feedback on Hashtag.ai has been mixed — some see it as a novelty, others as a tool.His biggest lesson: realizing he doesn’t (and can’t) know everything.Often works solo due to limited local collaboration opportunities.Aims to use AI to help teachers save time and improve classroom experiences.Hopes to attend college debt-free while continuing to innovate.Sound Bites"I want to save teachers time with AI.""I want to graduate without debt.""AI can help solve problems quickly."Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 00:00 Introduction to Hunter Earls and His Ventures 02:17 The Concept Behind Hashtag.ai 05:02 Lessons Learned in Entrepreneurship 08:05 Future Plans and Business Strategy 10:22 The Role of AI in Learning and Problem Solving 18:58 Future Aspirations and OpportunitiesSpecial MentionCheck out the Startup Summit in Lisbon this September, where 5,000+ founders, investors, and innovators will explore the future of tech, AI, and entrepreneurship. 👉 https://startupsummit.io🎟 Use code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off tickets when you register!

In this episode of The Innovation Conversation, Tovit Neizer delves into the critical role of storytelling in business, especially for startups striving to stand out. He explains how connecting emotionally with audiences and tailoring communication for different stakeholders can transform a startup’s impact. Tovit shares his approach to helping technical founders become compelling storytellers, offers tips for overcoming public speaking anxiety, and underscores why authenticity and transparency build trust. He also highlights the resilience needed in the entrepreneurial journey and the importance of finding a personal ‘why’ to stay motivated through tough timesTakeawaysStorytelling is essential for startups to genuinely connect with their audiences.Understanding your audience’s pain points is crucial for effective communication.Helping technical founders find their passion turns them into great storytellers.Emotional connections keep audiences engaged and improve message retention.Adapting communication style is key to addressing investors vs. customers vs. team.Public speaking anxiety can be managed with practice and preparation.Authentic, transparent communication builds credibility and trust.Sharing real challenges fosters a deeper bond with listeners.Successful entrepreneurs often excel in communication.Knowing your personal ‘why’ fuels motivation through hard entrepreneurial times.Sound Bites"Emotions are super important.""Practice makes perfect.""People want to connect to your story."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Storytelling in Business 01:57 The Importance of Storytelling for Startups 04:16 Transforming Technical Founders into Storytellers 07:13 Connecting Emotionally with Audiences 08:58 Adapting Communication for Different Audiences 11:45 The Role of Storytelling in Entrepreneurial Success 15:09 Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety 19:02 The Power of Authenticity in Communication 20:34 Identifying Successful Entrepreneurs 24:09 Resilience and Reinvention in Entrepreneurship 26:22 Internal Communication and Personal Branding 32:16 Finding Your Motivation as an EntrepreneurSpecial MentionCheck out the Startup Summit in Lisbon this September, where over 5,000 founders, investors, and innovators will gather to explore the future of tech and entrepreneurship. 👉 https://startupsummit.io🎟 Use code PODCAST for 50% off tickets when you register!

SummaryIn this engaging episode of The Innovation Conversation, Mollie Jahner, CEO of Spring and Forge, shares her fascinating journey from a marketing background to leading a company at the forefront of hard tech, aerospace, and defense. She unpacks how startups can navigate military contracts and government grants, the essentials of a strong commercialization strategy, and why maintaining a clean cap table is critical. Mollie also explores the future of AI and its broader implications, closing with how listeners can connect with her for more insights.Chapters00:00 Introduction to the Conversation 00:46 Mollie's Journey into Hard Tech and Defense 02:43 Navigating Military Contracts and Grants 05:36 Commercialization Strategies for Startups 08:26 The Importance of Conviction in Startups 11:15 Common Pitfalls for Startups 14:15 Networking and Fundraising Strategies 17:11 Coping with the Emotional Rollercoaster of Entrepreneurship 19:55 The Future of Aerospace and Technology 22:49 The Role of AI in Business and Society 24:54 Conclusion and Connecting with MollieSpecial MentionCheck out the Startup Summit in Lisbon this September, where over 5,000 founders, investors, and innovators will gather to explore the future of tech and entrepreneurship. 👉 https://startupsummit.io🎟 Use code PODCAST for 50% off tickets when you register!

In this episode of The Innovation Conversation, Yunsu Tang shares her entrepreneurial journey, influenced by her family and cultural expectations. She discusses the challenges of launching her first startup, the importance of resilience, and how her cultural identity shaped key business decisions. Yunsu also compares hustle culture in China with Western approaches and reflects on rapid technological shifts in the Chinese market. The conversation wraps up with her future aspirations and the valuable lessons she’s learned.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Yunsu Tang and Her Journey 02:37 The Path to Entrepreneurship: Influences and Challenges 05:12 Navigating Family Expectations and Cultural Pressures 07:48 The First Startup: Mental Health and Personal Growth 10:37 Lessons Learned: Pivoting and Resilience in Business 13:19 Cultural Identity and Its Impact on Entrepreneurship 15:56 Building the Second Startup: Insights and Market Fit 18:44 Comparing Business Environments: Hong Kong vs. London 21:34 The Hustle Culture: Chinese Work Ethic vs. Western Mindset 24:22 Future Aspirations and the Role of Technology 26:46 Conclusion and How to Connect with Yunsu TangSpecial MentionCheck out the Startup Summit in Lisbon this September, bringing together 5,000+ founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders from across Europe. 👉 https://startupsummit.io🎟 Use code PODCAST at checkout for 50% off tickets!

In this episode of the Innovation Conversation, Lina Gallagher joins us to share her inspiring journey from a career at Deloitte to becoming a pioneering entrepreneur and e-commerce consultant in Dubai. Lina reflects on the early days of e-commerce in the Middle East, her transition into entrepreneurship, and how adaptability and resilience have been key to her success.She dives into the evolving e-commerce landscape, particularly the growing role of AI, and offers a candid comparison between the entrepreneurial ecosystems in the Middle East and Europe. Lina highlights Dubai’s digital-forward environment, while also addressing the realities of setting up a business, such as banking and regulatory hurdles.Listeners will gain valuable insights into overcoming entrepreneurial challenges, the importance of having a multi-plan strategy, and the significant role family offices play in Middle Eastern investment landscapes. Lina also shares her personal motivations, the lessons she's learned, and her commitment to continuous learning and staying curious.🌟 Don't forget — join us at the Startup Summit in Lisbon this September, where leading entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators from around the world will gather. Secure your ticket today and be part of the future of entrepreneurship! 🚀Chapters00:00 — Introduction to Lina Gallagher and Her Ventures 02:14 — Lina's Entrepreneurial Journey and Transition to Dubai 11:39 — Challenges and Motivations in E-commerce 17:21 — The Evolution of E-commerce and AI Integration 24:30 — Business Landscape in the Middle East vs. Europe 25:49 — Entrepreneurship in Dubai: A Digital Oasis 32:02 — Investment Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities 41:08 — Navigating Struggles: The Power of Planning 46:41 — Connecting with Lina: The Best Ways to Reach Out

Innotion Conversation: From Burnout to Breakthrough — Building Resilience Through Health Tech with Oli JohnsonIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with Oli Johnson, a three-time startup founder, to explore his journey from burnout in the high-pressure world of finance to building a pioneering health tech startup focused on human resilience.They dive into:The importance of mental health for entrepreneurs.How DNA and biomarker data are shaping the future of preventative health.The economic impact of burnout on organizations.Building an AI-powered human resilience platform with data privacy at its core.Essential advice for young founders on balancing startup hustle with wellbeing.Tune in for practical insights on innovation, startup life, and the future of health tech.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Oli Johnson and His Journey 03:04 — From Burnout to Health Tech: A Personal Transformation 05:56 — Building a Human Resilience Platform 08:55 — Innovative Health Solutions: DNA and Biomarker Insights 11:51 — The Economic Impact of Burnout and Mental Health 14:56 — Preventative Health: A New Approach to Wellbeing 17:54 — Advice for Young Entrepreneurs: Prioritizing Health 20:46 — Market Response and Future Plans 24:03 — The Importance of Data Privacy in Health Tech 27:00 — Conclusion and Future Outlook

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: The New Faces of Entrepreneurship — Startups, AI, and Global Wealth with Anmol GoelIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual interviews Anmol Goel, a young fund manager and founder of GAC Symventures, who shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey and launching a global venture firm.They explore:The rise of Indian-origin founders and their global success.How AI is reshaping startups and entrepreneurship.The critical importance of adaptability for startup survival.Risk management challenges for founders in today’s economy.The evolving pathways to wealth creation in a changing world.Ricardo also shares his perspective on:The core traits of successful founders: self-belief, grit, and commitment.Why founders must validate ideas through self-investment.Key differences between the US and UK startup ecosystems.How education and access to capital can better support future entrepreneurs.Emerging markets like India and the Middle East as new frontiers for growth.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Anmol Goel and GAC Symventures 03:15 — Success of Indian-Origin Founders Globally 06:45 — The Impact of AI on Startups and Entrepreneurship 10:30 — Adaptability: The Key to Startup Success 13:55 — Risk Management Challenges for Entrepreneurs 17:20 — The Shifting Landscape of Wealth Creation 21:00 — Self-Belief, Grit, and Commitment: Founder Essentials 24:30 — US vs. UK Startup Ecosystems: Key Differences 28:15 — Improving Entrepreneurship Education and Capital Access 31:40 — Emerging Markets: India, the Middle East, and Beyond 34:00 — Closing Thoughts on the Future of Startups

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: Fighting Infection with Innovation — Zonova’s Journey in Health TechIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual speaks with Dr. Georgia Fleet and Carla Southworth, co-founders of Zonova, about their mission to reduce hospital-acquired infections through groundbreaking antimicrobial technology.They discuss:The global challenge of antimicrobial resistance.Feedback from the healthcare market on infection control.Navigating regulatory hurdles and manufacturing plans.The realities of building investor relationships in early-stage startups.Broader applications of antimicrobial technologies beyond medical devices.Key advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in health tech.Tune in to hear how innovation, persistence, and a clear mission are helping transform healthcare solutions.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Zonova and Its Founders 03:02 — The Problem of Hospital-Acquired Infections 05:52 — Founding Journey 09:01 — Market Feedback and Antimicrobial Resistance 12:14 — Regulatory Challenges and Manufacturing Plans 15:00 — Investor Relations and Startup Challenges 18:03 — Broader Applications of Antimicrobial Technology 21:02 — Personal Experiences and Advice for Entrepreneurs💡 Key TakeawaysZonova aims to reduce hospital-acquired infections with novel antimicrobial technology.75% of catheterized patients experience urinary tract infections.The founding journey is challenging but highly rewarding.Market feedback shows strong demand for effective infection control.Antimicrobial resistance is an escalating global health crisis.Regulatory pathways vary by region, complicating market access.Building investor relationships requires resilience and adaptability.Experienced advisors are essential for startup success.Antimicrobial technologies have potential beyond medical devices.Entrepreneurship demands patience and a long-term vision.

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: The Authentic Entrepreneur — Building Bold FMCG Brands with John StapletonIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual sits down with John Stapleton, known as the Authentic Entrepreneur, to explore his remarkable 30+ year journey building pioneering consumer brands in the UK and US.John shares the inside story behind the creation of The New Covent Garden Soup Co., which introduced fresh soup to the UK market, and reflects on the operational hurdles of expanding to the US with Glencoe Foods Inc. He also dives into launching Little Dish, a brand that redefined toddler meals, scaling it to £15M in revenue before its successful exit.This conversation covers:Real-world challenges of innovation and scaling new categories.The role of resilience and risk management in entrepreneurship.The importance of mentorship, advice, and learning from setbacks.Key traits that define successful entrepreneurs.Today, John mentors startups, serves as an investor and NED, and supports emerging brands through accelerators like Mission Ventures and Redesdale.Whether you’re launching your first product or scaling a brand, John’s insights are not to be missed.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to John Stapleton 03:54 — The Journey of New Covent Garden Soup Company 07:12 — The Concept of Fresh Soup and Market Challenges 11:44 — Investment and Growth Strategies 16:51 — Overcoming Operational Challenges 21:35 — Expanding to the US Market 26:30 — Reflections on Success and Failure 29:50 — The Journey of Entrepreneurship 34:00 — Navigating Challenges and Resilience 39:45 — Understanding Risk and Uncertainty 41:11 — Key Traits of Successful Entrepreneurs 47:04 — The Importance of Seeking Advice 52:13 — The Motivation Behind Entrepreneurship

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: From AI to Entrepreneurship — Building Startups and Communities with Sara Landi TortoliIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual speaks with Sara Landi Tortoli about her transition from an AI and machine learning product manager to becoming a solopreneur.Sara shares:The challenges of moving into entrepreneurship and the importance of a strong distribution strategy.Why co-founders matter and how they can make or break a startup.Her startup idea: using AI companions to combat loneliness.Lessons from her journey into podcasting and communicating technology to a wider audience.Insights into Berlin’s vibrant culture, nightlife, and startup ecosystem.A comparison between startup support in Berlin and London.Ricardo and Sara dive into resilience, motivation, adaptability, and embracing uncertainty — essential traits for any entrepreneur — while also exploring how AI can enhance critical thinking in today’s fast-moving world.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — From Product Manager to Solopreneur 02:57 — Lessons Learned in Entrepreneurship 05:58 — The Importance of Co-Founders 09:03 — The Birth of an AI Companion Startup 12:03 — Navigating Startup Challenges 15:00 — The Podcast Journey 18:09 — Communicating Technology to the Masses 25:12 — Navigating Berlin's Nightlife and Culture 26:52 — The Startup Ecosystem in Berlin 28:41 — Comparing Startup Support: Berlin vs. London 32:40 — Resilience and Motivation in Entrepreneurship 36:06 — The Importance of Stubbornness and Flexibility 40:20 — Embracing Uncertainty in Entrepreneurship 43:40 — The Role of AI in Critical Thinking 49:44 — Connecting with Sara Landi Tortoli

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: Growth, Resilience, and Media Capital — Insights with Diana FlorescuIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual speaks with Diana Florescu, founder of Media for Growth, about her journey from tech to media capital investment and supporting emerging consumer brands.They dive into:The cultural differences in business practices between the US and Europe.The challenges startups face when entering the US market.How a growth mindset differs between the US and UK.Why strategic adaptation is essential when expanding internationally.The evolving landscape of media capital investments.The resilience required for entrepreneurs navigating these complex markets.Diana also shares practical advice for startups looking to scale across borders and optimize their marketing strategies for sustainable growth.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Media for Growth 03:01 — Diana's Journey and Background 05:52 — Cultural Differences in Business 09:11 — Challenges of Moving to the US 12:07 — Growth Mindset in the US vs. UK 14:53 — Advice for Startups Entering the US Market 17:52 — Investor Perspectives on European Companies 20:52 — The Need for Change in European Investment Culture 24:00 — Personal Resilience in Entrepreneurship 26:59 — The Future of Media Capital Investments 30:03 — Optimizing Marketing Spend 32:56 — Conclusion and Contact Information💡 Key TakeawaysDiana founded Media for Growth to support emerging consumer brands.Cultural differences impact business practices between the US and Europe.The US market moves faster and sees higher valuations.US investors are more open to innovative business models.Startups should approach the US market strategically, market by market.European companies often need to relocate to attract US investors.The UK offers beneficial investment schemes like SEIS and EIS.Resilience is critical for entrepreneurs facing expansion challenges.Media capital investments are evolving with new technologies.Optimizing marketing spend is vital for sustainable startup growth.

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: Empowering Young Entrepreneurs — Insights from Prakriti Garb of Kickstart GlobalIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual speaks with Prakriti Garb, a second-year management student at LSE and managing director of Kickstart Global, the UK’s largest student incubator.They discuss:Prakriti’s journey into entrepreneurship and leadership at a young age.Kickstart Global’s mission to support and empower young founders.The unique challenges faced by student entrepreneurs.How mentorship and community play crucial roles in startup success.Insights into the investor landscape for young founders.Common mistakes early entrepreneurs make — and how to avoid them.The need for greater female representation in the startup ecosystem.How universities can foster stronger entrepreneurial communities.Prakriti shares valuable advice for young entrepreneurs on navigating setbacks and building resilience during their startup journey.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Prakriti Garb and Kickstart Global 02:10 — The Mission and Impact of Kickstart Global 04:51 — Challenges Faced by Student Founders 06:13 — Investor Perspectives on Young Founders 09:18 — Common Mistakes Made by Young Entrepreneurs 10:58 — Support Structures for Student Founders 14:01 — Addressing Gender Disparities in Entrepreneurship 17:03 — Motivation and Community in Entrepreneurship 19:46 — The Role of Universities in Fostering Entrepreneurship 21:52 — Recommended Resources for Young Entrepreneurs 23:05 — Advice for Overcoming Bad Days as a Founder💡 Key TakeawaysKickstart Global supports the next generation of startup founders.Student founders face unique challenges in funding and mentorship.Community and peer networks are vital for early-stage success.Female representation in startups is still lacking and needs support.Universities can play a bigger role in entrepreneurship development.Investors view young founders with both interest and caution.Avoiding early mistakes can significantly improve founder success rates.Motivation, resilience, and community are key to overcoming founder setbacks.

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: Reinventing Insurance — Customer-First Innovation with Ross McCarthy of FrugalIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual speaks with Ross McCarthy, founder of Frugal, about disrupting the traditional insurance industry with a customer-centric approach.They explore:How Frugal is addressing long-standing customer frustrations in insurance.The importance of loyalty rewards and cashback models.Challenges Ross faced launching a startup with a lean team.Fundraising strategies and navigating early-stage investor relations.Personal reflections on entrepreneurship, influences, and inspirations.Why the insurance industry is ripe for disruption — especially with AI and emerging technologies.Ross also shares his vision for a future where insurance truly works for the customer, and why persistence and prioritization are critical in startup life.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Frugal and Ross McCarthy 00:58 — Customer-Centric Approach in Insurance 04:09 — Challenges and Growth of a Startup 06:49 — Fundraising and Investor Relations 10:09 — Navigating Bad Days as an Entrepreneur 11:52 — Influences and Inspirations 12:52 — Industry Challenges and Opportunities 17:54 — The Future of Insurance and Frugal's Vision💡 Key TakeawaysFrugal was founded to address common customer complaints in insurance.Loyalty rewards and cashback are central to Frugal’s model.Building a startup with limited resources requires smart prioritization.Fundraising is time-intensive but critical for growth.Professional market surveys are invaluable early on.Support networks among family and friends matter.Audiobooks and continuous learning fuel entrepreneurial growth.The insurance industry is ready for disruption, especially with AI innovations.

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: Urgency, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship — Insights with Stephanie MelodiaIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual speaks with Stephanie Melodia, entrepreneur, marketing consultant, and host of Strategy and Tragedy, about her journey from art school to founding a successful marketing consultancy.They dive into:The importance of urgency and decisive action when starting a business.How prioritization and energy management fuel entrepreneurial success.The role of creativity and mentorship in navigating challenges.Lessons from her podcast on entrepreneurship, diversity, and resilience.How public speaking can be a powerful tool for founders and marketers.The value of leaning into discomfort and overcoming fear to drive growth.Stephanie shares personal insights on balancing business demands with personal wellbeing and highlights the importance of recognizing and supporting diversity in entrepreneurship.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Entrepreneurship and Marketing 05:11 — The Entrepreneurial Journey: From Art School to Business 08:54 — The Urgency of Starting a Business 11:01 — Mastering Prioritization in Entrepreneurship 17:27 — Overcoming Challenges and Finding Balance 20:00 — Snowboarding and Life Lessons 22:59 — The Birth of a Podcast 25:52 — Diversity in Entrepreneurship 30:00 — Advice for Startups 37:02 — Public Speaking Journey💡 Key TakeawaysUrgency often catalyzes successful business launches.Creativity and entrepreneurial traits are universal qualities.Prioritization and energy management are critical for founders.To-do lists are endless; focus on high-value activities.Breaks and rest are essential for maintaining productivity.Comfort zones hinder growth — challenge them.Market validation is crucial for startup success.Public speaking is a strong marketing and personal branding tool.Diversity strengthens the entrepreneurship community.Entrepreneurship is a journey filled with challenges and breakthroughs.Building a personal brand opens up new opportunities.

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: Building Confidence, Culture, and Community — The Entrepreneurial Journey of Cyrus WongIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual speaks with Cyrus Wong, a young entrepreneur, about his inspiring journey of launching his first business early and navigating the challenges of the entrepreneurial world.They discuss:How Cyrus built confidence and resilience while starting young.The importance of community support in entrepreneurial success.How his cultural background shaped his mindset and approach.Key advice for aspiring young founders entering the startup ecosystem.His future ambitions to launch a fashion tech startup and contribute to building a stronger entrepreneurial community in the UK.Cyrus shares real-world insights on persistence, adaptability, and the mindset needed to thrive in today’s fast-changing startup landscape.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Cyrus Wong: A Young Entrepreneur's Journey 07:34 — Navigating Challenges and Building Confidence 15:23 — Cultural Adaptation and Community Support 20:49 — Advice for Young Entrepreneurs 26:39 — Future Aspirations and Building Ecosystem💡 Key TakeawaysEarly entrepreneurial journeys demand confidence and resilience.Community support plays a vital role in startup success.Cultural background influences mindset and strategies.Young entrepreneurs must embrace adaptability and persistence.Ambition to innovate in fashion tech and build a startup ecosystem is driving the next wave of founders.

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: Mastering Mindset and Performance — Coaching Insights with Chet HiraniIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual speaks with Chet Hirani, executive performance coach, about building the foundations for entrepreneurial success through mindset, resilience, and self-awareness.They dive into:How entrepreneurs can build a strong foundation and prioritize health.Managing guilt while striving for business success.The balance between ego and productivity.The power of self-belief and taking control of your personal and professional narrative.The role of self-assessment and self-awareness in entrepreneurial growth.Balancing innovation with real customer needs.Navigating dark moments and sustaining motivation.The impact of influential books on leadership and mindset.Overcoming fear and embracing the leap into entrepreneurship.Why consistency and a positive mindset are essential to long-term success.Chet shares real-world strategies for entrepreneurs to achieve peak performance and maintain a healthy balance while scaling their ventures.Learn more about Chet Hirani’s work at chethirani.com.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Performance Coaching 01:14 — Building a Strong Foundation for Entrepreneurs 05:29 — Managing Guilt and Prioritizing Self-Care 10:41 — Balancing Ego and Productivity 13:12 — Building Self-Belief and Confidence 17:01 — Taking Control of Your Narrative 24:39 — The Art of Self-Assessment and Awareness 28:20 — Balancing Innovation and Customer Needs 32:37 — Navigating Dark Moments in Entrepreneurship 36:32 — Influential Books and Their Impact 41:50 — Overcoming Fear and Taking the Leap 45:09 — The Importance of Consistency and Mindset💡 Key TakeawaysStrong foundations and health are key for sustainable entrepreneurship.Self-care and managing guilt are essential for balanced success.Self-belief and narrative control shape entrepreneurial journeys.Awareness and honest self-assessment are crucial for growth.Innovation must align with customer needs for real market traction.Consistency and a positive mindset fuel long-term entrepreneurial success.Influential books and continuous learning enhance leadership skills.Facing fear and embracing change are essential for startup growth.

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: Immersive Commerce and Entrepreneurial Grit — Insights from Annie Siara of One Way XIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual speaks with Annie Siara, CEO and founder of One Way X, about the evolution of immersive commerce and how it’s reshaping the future of retail by bridging offline and online experiences.They explore:The rise of immersive commerce and consumer behavior trends among younger generations.Annie’s entrepreneurial journey and navigating the challenges of fundraising.The importance of persistence, grit, and having a clear entrepreneurial vision.Lessons learned from leadership, team dynamics, and market positioning.Managing uncertainty and thriving in the volatile startup environment.Book recommendations that have shaped Annie’s approach to business and leadership.Annie shares practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to build resilient businesses in a fast-changing retail landscape.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — Introduction to Immersive Commerce 04:19 — The Journey of Entrepreneurship 08:03 — Navigating the Investment Landscape 10:09 — Motivation and Grit in Business 13:29 — Learning from Past Experiences 18:03 — The Importance of Location and Market 20:22 — Lessons in Leadership and Team Dynamics 23:30 — Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 25:02 — Managing Uncertainty in Startups 26:20 — Book Recommendations and Closing Thoughts💡 Key TakeawaysImmersive commerce bridges online and offline retail experiences.Understanding consumer behavior, especially among younger generations, is critical.Persistence and grit are essential traits for entrepreneurial success.Strong leadership and team dynamics are key to scaling startups.Managing uncertainty is a necessary skill in today’s fast-evolving markets.Strategic location and market focus can define a startup’s trajectory.Book recommendations provide practical insights for founders navigating leadership and growth.

🎙️ Innotion Conversation: Building Brands Through Authentic Content — Insights from Tessa Debruyne of Myth MarketingIn this episode of Innotion Conversation, host Ricardo Pascual speaks with Tessa Debruyne, founder of Myth Marketing, about her journey from sales to launching a social-first agency dedicated to helping startups thrive through authentic content strategies.They dive into:Key marketing challenges startups face in today’s crowded digital space.The importance of authenticity in branding and building genuine audience trust.How to craft engaging video content and navigate ever-changing social media algorithms.The rising dominance of vertical video formats, particularly on TikTok and Instagram Reels.Strategies for reviving struggling social media accounts and balancing live versus pre-recorded content.The growing role of AI in content generation and its impact on brand storytelling.Why understanding your target audience is the key to content success.How building a loyal brand community leads to long-term growth.Tessa shares practical strategies for startups to cut through the noise and build brands that truly connect.Brought to you by Startup Summit 2025 — Europe’s leading startup and investor summit, happening September 18–19, 2025, in Lisbon.🎟️ Learn more and secure your spot at www.startupsummit.io🕒 Chapters 00:00 — The Journey to Entrepreneurship 02:49 — Navigating Marketing Challenges for Startups 05:50 — The Importance of Authenticity in Branding 08:56 — Creating Engaging Content: Strategies and Tips 11:48 — Understanding Social Media Algorithms 14:54 — Video Content: Length and Format Considerations 18:45 — The Rise of Vertical Video Content 20:09 — Crafting Engaging Content Strategies 22:14 — Navigating AI in Content Creation 24:49 — Identifying Your Target Audience 28:55 — Reviving a Struggling TikTok Account 30:56 — Balancing Live Content and Pre-Recorded Videos 32:40 — Building a Community Around Your Brand 34:41 — The Power of Brand Loyalty and Identity💡 Key TakeawaysAuthenticity is at the core of effective modern branding.Vertical video content is dominating platforms like TikTok and Instagram.Startups must master content creation and audience targeting to grow.AI is reshaping content strategies, offering both challenges and opportunities.Building a loyal community around your brand drives sustainable growth.Engaging content requires consistency, creativity, and audience understanding.Social media algorithms favor video content that captures attention fast.Live video and pre-recorded content should complement each other for maximum impact.