Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Eccentrics

In this conversation, Praveen Sahay, founder of Wave Equity Partners, discusses his journey in investing in climate solutions, focusing on deep tech innovations that address critical issues in energy, food, and water. He emphasizes the importance of sustainable investments that do not rely on government subsidies and shares insights on innovative approaches to carbon capture and energy generation. Praveen also reflects on his unique career path from a nuclear physicist to a venture capitalist, highlighting the significance of creativity and purpose in driving innovation.TakeawaysInvesting in climate solutions requires a deep understanding of interconnected sectors.Sustainable solutions must be economically viable without government subsidies.Innovation is essential for transforming industries and creating value.The energy sector's reliance on government funding can distort market dynamics.Carbon capture technology can significantly reduce emissions and costs.Clean energy generation can be achieved using alternative fuels like water and ethanol.Entrepreneurship is a mindset that transcends industry boundaries.Life's opportunities should be embraced without fear of the unknown.Purpose in life can stem from love and creativity.Engaging with passionate entrepreneurs is a rewarding experience.Today's guest, Praveen Sahay, can be found online at:Profile: https://waveep.com/our-firm/team/praveen-sahay/Website: https://waveep.com/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/psahayYour host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsclimate solutions, venture capital, carbon capture, energy generation, sustainable investments, innovation, clean technology, environmental impact, entrepreneurship, deep tech

In this conversation, Alex Hejazi, founder and CEO of Placement, shares his journey from finance to the kiosk industry, detailing the evolution of his business through various pivots, especially during the pandemic. He discusses the challenges and successes of launching a startup, the importance of adaptability, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation highlights the innovative approach of Placement in the unattended retail space and the future potential of kiosk technology.TakeawaysAlex Hejazi transitioned from finance to the kiosk industry.Placement started as a rental service for sports and leisure equipment.The pandemic forced a pivot to package management solutions.The company evolved from hardware to a software-focused model.First dollar earned came from a proof of concept at the beach.Hiring a co-founder was a pivotal moment for the business.Entrepreneurs should consider maintaining supplemental income initially.Pivots are essential for adapting to market changes.The kiosk industry is evolving towards unattended retail solutions.Placement aims to maximize asset utilization for brands. Today's guest, Alexander Hejazi, can be found online at:Website: https://findplacement.io/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhejazi/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠KeywordsPlacement, kiosks, unattended retail, entrepreneurship, business pivot, startup journey, technology, package management, distribution, innovation

In this conversation, Marilyn Yang, co-founder and CEO of Fun-Gal Snacks, shares the journey of creating Popadelics, a brand specializing in crunchy mushroom chips. From the initial idea sparked during the COVID-19 pandemic to navigating product development, scaling the business, and securing distribution in major retailers, Marilyn discusses the challenges and successes faced along the way. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the market, leveraging resources, and learning from experiences in the food industry.TakeawaysThe idea for Popadelics emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic.Marilyn and her husband leveraged their finance backgrounds to navigate the startup world.They recognized a gap in the market for mushroom snacks.Outsourcing R&D was crucial for product development.Building relationships with distributors was key to scaling the business.They focused on creating a product that was both tasty and commercially viable.Participation in trade shows helped validate their product concept.They learned the importance of being in retail spaces where their target customers shop.Marilyn reflects on the need for industry knowledge before diving into entrepreneurship.The journey has been both challenging and rewarding, leading to significant growth.Today's guest, Marilyn Yang, can be found online at:Website: https://popadelics.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/popadelics/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/popadelicsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/popadelics/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠KeywordsPopadelics, mushroom snacks, entrepreneurship, product development, retail distribution, startup journey, food industry, business growth, R&D, healthy snacks

In this conversation, James, a seasoned resort architect, shares insights into his career spanning nearly four decades. He emphasizes the importance of placemaking in architecture, focusing on creating unique experiences rather than just buildings. James discusses his journey from concept to construction, highlighting the collaborative process with clients and the significance of passion in architecture. He reflects on his global experiences and the universal similarities among people, advocating for a more connected world through travel and understanding.TakeawaysJames has been a resort architect for nearly four decades.Placemaking is about creating unique experiences, not just buildings.Architecture should express its regional uniqueness.Good design requires understanding the client's vision.The design process involves intense collaboration and brainstorming.Sustainable concepts were part of James's work in the 90s.Resort design combines various architectural principles.Passion for architecture is essential for success.Building relationships with clients leads to repeat business.Traveling the world reveals our shared human experiences.Today's guest, James Freeman, can be found online at:Website: https://www.fscarchitects.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesgfreemanfscarchitects/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fsc-architects/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsresort architecture, placemaking, design process, sustainable communities, architecture career, unique experiences, hotel design, global perspective, client relationships, passion for architecture

In this conversation, Erin Holowach discusses her journey as an entrepreneur aiming to revolutionize the real estate industry. With over 22 years of experience, she highlights the inefficiencies in traditional real estate commissions and introduces her company, ComFree, which offers a commission-free model for selling homes. The discussion covers the evolution of real estate practices, the need for transparency and education, and the challenges faced in disrupting a long-standing industry. Erin emphasizes the importance of empowering consumers and providing them with the tools to navigate the real estate market effectively.TakeawaysErin Holowach aims to change the real estate industry.Real estate commissions have ballooned over the years.The traditional real estate model is outdated.ComFree offers a commission-free selling model.Transparency and education are crucial in real estate.Consumers are waking up to the inefficiencies in real estate.The value of real estate agents is being questioned.Legal aspects of real estate transactions are essential.ComFree provides support and education to sellers.The future of real estate is shifting towards consumer empowerment.Today's guest, Erin Holowach, can be found online at:Website: https://comfree.com/LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/comfreeFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/erin.holowach/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsreal estate, commissions, disruption, ComFree, home selling, entrepreneurship, transparency, education, market value, consumer empowerment

In this conversation, Brian Hamilton shares his journey as a perpetual startup entrepreneur, discussing the inception of Sageworks, his philanthropic efforts with Inmates to Entrepreneurs, and the importance of fostering entrepreneurship in disadvantaged communities. He emphasizes the role of AI in business, the challenges faced by new entrepreneurs, and reflects on historical contexts that shape our current society. The discussion also touches on the impact of war and the need for empathy in understanding the experiences of others.TakeawaysBrian Hamilton is a perpetual startup entrepreneur and philanthropist.Sageworks was created to simplify complex financial data for businesses.The importance of entrepreneurship in disadvantaged communities is emphasized.Successful small businesses often require minimal capital to start.AI should be used to solve real problems, not just as a trend.Networking with the right people is crucial for success.Many entrepreneurs fail by pursuing ideas that are already saturated.The role of AI in business is to enhance productivity and efficiency.Historical context shapes our understanding of current societal issues.War has profound effects on individuals and society as a whole.Brian Hamilton is chairman of LiveSwitch and a leading expert on entrepreneurship. As founder of Sageworks (now Abrigo), America’s first fintech company, Hamilton helped millions of small business owners understand their financial data. Through Inmates to Entrepreneurs, he encourages entrepreneurship as a means to economic opportunity. Hamilton’s work has been featured by outlets like Good Morning America and CNBC, and he starred in the show Free Enterprise on ABC.Today's guest, Brian Hamilton, can be found online at:LiveSwitch: https://www.liveswitch.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brianhamilton.entrepreneurInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/brianhamiltonnc/?hl=enTwitter: https://x.com/brianhamiltonncYour host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsentrepreneurship, AI, philanthropy, small business, Sageworks, Live Switch, financial literacy, nonprofit, mentorship, historical context

On this episode Kasey Edwards shares her journey from being a stay-at-home mom to becoming a passionate advocate for her daughter diagnosed with SPG47, a rare neurodegenerative disorder. She discusses the emotional impact of the diagnosis, the formation of a nonprofit to support research, and the potential of AI in healthcare. Kasey emphasizes the importance of community, awareness, and the hope that exists for families facing similar challenges.TakeawaysKasey transitioned from a stay-at-home mom to a parent-driven researcher.SPG47 is an ultra-rare neurodegenerative disorder affecting her daughter.The journey began with a shocking diagnosis and a search for support.Kasey leveraged her background in healthcare to navigate the challenges.The formation of a nonprofit was a pivotal moment in their journey.AI technology has the potential to revolutionize rare disease research.Community support is crucial for families dealing with rare diseases.Kasey aims to create a feedback loop between business and research funding.Awareness and education are key to helping families find resources.Kasey encourages parents to find beauty in their unique journeys.KeywordsKasey Edwards, SPG47, rare diseases, nonprofit, gene therapy, AI in healthcare, venture philanthropy, parental support, awareness, cerebral palsyToday's guest, Kasey Edwards, can be found online at:Website: https://cartwheelsinchaos.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kasey-edwards-7899b63Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Cartwheels-in-Chaos/100091989288711/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠

In this conversation, Steven Rothberg, founder of College Recruiter, discusses the mission of his job search platform aimed at helping students and recent graduates find meaningful employment. He shares insights on the evolution of the business, the impact of COVID-19 on recruitment, and the challenges of hiring and managing employees. Rothberg also highlights the importance of adapting business models in a changing market, implementing the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), and his thoughts on the future of work for the next generation of job seekers.TakeawaysEvery student and recent graduate deserves a great career.The job market has a divide between employers and new graduates.COVID-19 significantly impacted recruitment and hiring practices.Adapting business models is crucial in a changing market.Hiring the first employee is a major challenge for entrepreneurs.Capitalization issues can lead to difficult business decisions.Implementing EOS has transformed the company's operations.Raising money can provide better capitalization for growth.The future job market will require adaptability to technology.Gen Z faces unique challenges in the current job market.Today's guest, Steven Rothberg, can be found online at:Website: https://www.collegerecruiter.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenrothberg/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠

In this conversation, Deb Tauber discusses her journey as a nurse and the evolution of her company, Innovative Sim Solutions, which focuses on medical simulation training. She emphasizes the importance of simulation in enhancing patient safety and improving healthcare education. Deb shares insights on the impact of COVID-19 on her business, the transition to virtual training, and the future of medical simulation technology.TakeawaysDeb Tauber is a nurse and founder of Innovative Sim Solutions.Her company offers a podcast, online courses, and consulting services.Simulation training enhances patient safety by allowing practice of high-risk scenarios.Real-world examples show the effectiveness of simulation in healthcare.COVID-19 accelerated the adoption of virtual training methods.The technology for medical simulation has become more affordable and accessible.Deb's consulting helps organizations achieve accreditation in simulation training.Simulation training leads to improved test scores in nursing education.The future of medical simulation will be driven by younger generations demanding technology.The transition to new technologies in healthcare is gradual but essential.Today's guest, Deb Tauber, can be found online at:Website: https://innovativesimsolutions.com/Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2XmqzPTxcvwFwmHOrYScDPLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deb-tauber-simsolutions/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsmedical simulation, virtual reality, nursing education, patient safety, healthcare training, simulation technology, telehealth, consulting, innovative solutions, healthcare education

In this conversation, Josh Taylor, founder and CEO of Product Evo, shares his journey in product development and entrepreneurship. He discusses the importance of product validation, the challenges faced in early ventures, and the lessons learned that led to the establishment of his current business model. Josh emphasizes the significance of understanding customer needs and the impact of volume on business success. He also highlights the importance of targeting the right clients and adapting strategies to meet market demands.TakeawaysProduct validation is crucial to avoid wasted investments.Entrepreneurs often need to pivot based on market feedback.Learning from failures is a key part of the entrepreneurial journey.Building strong relationships with clients can lead to long-term success.Understanding customer pain points is essential for product development.Volume in testing can lead to better product market fit.Cutting unnecessary expenses can improve profitability.Targeting the right clients can streamline business operations.Iterative testing and feedback are vital for product success.A strong partnership can enhance business capabilities.Today's guest, Josh Taylor, can be found online at:Website: https://www.productevo.io/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-l-taylorLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/productevoYour host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsproduct development, entrepreneurship, product validation, business strategy, market fit, supply chain, startup success, product design, customer focus, business growth

In this conversation, Toby Thomas shares his entrepreneurial journey, starting from his early days in mechanical sales to founding Insight Solutions, a national service company. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, including the importance of understanding customer needs, navigating growth, and dealing with imposter syndrome. Toby reflects on his exit strategy, life after selling his business, and his humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. He also touches on the impact of COVID-19 on his personal and professional life, and his experiences in the entertainment industry.Takeaways-Toby started his first business, Insight Solutions, at 28.-The entrepreneurial journey is filled with highs and lows.-Understanding customer needs is crucial for business success.-Imposter syndrome is common among entrepreneurs.-The importance of surrounding yourself with supportive people.-Toby's first dollar came from a $6,700 check.-Selling the business was a pivotal moment in Toby's life.-Life after the exit involved new ventures and personal growth.-Toby engaged in humanitarian efforts in Ukraine.-COVID-19 opened new opportunities for investment and growth.Today's guest, Toby Thomas, can be found online at:Website: https://battlespringsranch.com/Website: https://alpha-inc.com/Website:https://www.palominocap.com/ensite-solutions-llc/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toby-thomas-10848618/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsentrepreneurship, business growth, customer understanding, software development, imposter syndrome, exit strategy, humanitarian efforts, COVID-19 impact, entertainment industry, personal growth

In this conversation, Veronica Scarpaulino, founder of Goldfinch Leadership, discusses the intricate balance between creativity and leadership in entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence and creative problem-solving as essential skills for effective leadership and career transitions. The dialogue explores the journey from being a doer to a leader, the significance of understanding oneself, and how broad knowledge can enhance creativity. Veronica shares her personal journey and the founding principles of her coaching practice, highlighting the transformative power of creativity in professional development.TakeawaysVeronica Scarpaulino is a creativity and innovation coach.Entrepreneurs must transition from doers to leaders.Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership.Creativity is not just art; it's problem-solving.Broad knowledge enhances creative thinking.Career transitions can happen at any age.Self-awareness is foundational for emotional intelligence.Creative intelligence can be developed through practice.Hiring complementary skills is essential for business success.Goldfinch Leadership embodies partnership and growth.Today's guest, Veronica Scarpellino, can be found online at:Website: https://www.goldfinchleadership.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronicascarpellinoAmazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Veronica-Scarpellino/author/B0DXT4CSKFYour host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsentrepreneurship, leadership, emotional intelligence, creativity, career transition, coaching, innovation, problem-solving, personal development, Goldfinch Leadership

In this episode, Todd Fisher, founder and chairman of Intraprise Solutions, shares his journey from military service to entrepreneurship in the tech industry. He discusses the importance of leveraging technology, building strong networks, and the lessons learned in consulting and project management. Todd emphasizes the significance of legal clarity in contracts and the need for businesses to recognize and leverage their data as a valuable asset. The discussion also touches on the evolution of technology services in the financial and healthcare sectors, highlighting the role of data transformation and modernization.TakeawaysTodd Fisher is the founder and chairman of Intraprise Solutions, focusing on digital technology services.His military background as a signal officer shaped his problem-solving skills in business.The transition from military to entrepreneurship involved leveraging technology trends.Intraprise Solutions has acted as an incubator for new business ideas and technologies.Building strong networks and relationships has been crucial for business growth.Lessons learned include the importance of hiring talented individuals and treating them well.Adapting project management methodologies to client needs is essential for success.Legal clarity in contracts is vital to avoid payment delays and misunderstandings.Data transformation is key for businesses to leverage their existing data effectively.Organizations must recognize the value of their data and treat it as an asset.Today's guest, Todd Fisher, can be found online at:Website: https://www.intraprise.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-fisher-b507175Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠KeywordsTodd Fisher, Intraprise Solutions, entrepreneurship, digital transformation, consulting, business lessons, data management, technology services, financial services, healthcare

In this conversation, Craig Ustler, a prominent real estate developer in Orlando, shares his journey from growing up in College Park to becoming a key figure in urban development. He discusses the evolution of Orlando, the principles of new urbanism, and his experiences with various projects, including Thornton Park Central and Creative Village. Ustler emphasizes the importance of community, market dynamics, and the challenges faced in real estate development, while also reflecting on the future of urban planning and the significance of creating meaningful spaces for people.TakeawaysCraig Ustler is a third-generation Orlando resident and developer.His early exposure to real estate came from his father, a real estate broker.Ustler believes in the shift towards urban neighborhoods and new urbanism.Education in urban economics shaped his understanding of city development.His first projects were small-scale developments in Thornton Park.Thornton Park Central was a neighborhood-defining project for Ustler.Creative Village represents a new vision for urban development in Orlando.Market dynamics play a crucial role in the success of real estate projects.Ustler emphasizes the importance of community and local businesses in development.He advocates for studying urban planning and place making for future developers.Today's guest, Craig Ustler, can be found online at:Website: https://ustler.net/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠KeywordsCraig Ustler, Orlando, real estate development, new urbanism, Thornton Park, Creative Village, urban planning, neighborhood development, market dynamics, community building

In this conversation, JJ Garofalo discusses his journey in the legal services industry, the innovative concept of tele-law, and the evolution of his company, Attorney Live. He shares insights on the challenges faced in establishing a unique business model, the importance of strategic partnerships, and the future growth potential of his services in the legal technology space.TakeawaysJJ Garofalo has 19 years of experience in the legal services industry.The concept of tele-law was inspired by a personal experience with tele-health.The business model evolved from a monthly subscription to multiple revenue streams.Attorney Live focuses on providing legal services through a mobile app.The company aims to be a household name in tele-law.Strategic partnerships with companies like Clio are being explored.The platform offers benefits to both consumers and attorneys.The importance of understanding the market and competition is crucial.Garofalo's entrepreneurial spirit was influenced by his father's business background.The future of Attorney Live includes potential white label opportunities. Today's guest, JJ Garofalo, can be found online at:Website: https://www.legalresources.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jj-garofalo-a296334/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/legalresourcesYour host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordslegal services, tele-law, business model, entrepreneurship, revenue streams, legal technology, employee benefits, startup growth, telehealth, legal consultation

In this conversation, John Mason-Smith, owner of HireWith, shares his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of sales as a superpower. He discusses the unique approach of HireWith in talent acquisition within the payroll industry and the concept of 'sticky niches' to identify profitable opportunities. John reflects on his experiences with failures, the significance of curiosity in sales, and the value of building relationships with industry experts. The discussion highlights the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, providing insights for aspiring business owners.TakeawaysJohn Mason-Smith is a serial entrepreneur and owner of HireWith.HireWith focuses on talent acquisition in the payroll and PEO industry.Sales is a superpower that can lead to success in business.Building relationships is key to successful sales strategies.The concept of 'sticky niches' helps identify profitable opportunities.Failures can provide valuable lessons for future endeavors.Curiosity can open doors and foster connections in sales.Networking with industry experts can lead to new insights and opportunities.Understanding the market and its needs is crucial for success.Execution is more important than the idea itself.Today's guest, John (JMS) Mason-Smith, can be found online at:Website: https://johnmason-smith.com/Website: https://hirewith.us/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmason-smith/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jms.talks/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsentrepreneurship, sales, HireWith, payroll, blockchain, business strategy, talent acquisition, mergers and acquisitions, sales coaching, networking

In this conversation, David Irwin, an architect and founder of Terra Projects, discusses his journey from studying architecture to establishing his design studio in Joshua Tree, California. He explores the influence of Gaudi on his work, the duality of architecture as both an art and a science, and the impact of migration trends on architectural practices. David shares his personal story of moving to the desert, the challenges and successes of his first project, Project 17, and the importance of designing for extreme environments. He emphasizes the poetics of architecture and the cultural shifts between urban and rural living, ultimately reflecting on the solace found in nature.TakeawaysDavid Irwin studied architecture at Pratt Institute and founded Terra Projects.He emphasizes the spiritual aspect of architecture in his work.Gaudi's techniques influence modern architectural practices.Architecture requires both artistic and scientific skills.Migration trends are reshaping architectural needs and designs.David's move to the desert was inspired by personal reflection and meditation.Project 17 is a significant work located in Joshua Tree, California.Designing for extreme environments presents unique challenges.The poetics of architecture is essential for meaningful design.Cultural shifts are leading to a blend of urban and rural influences in architecture.Today's guest, David Irwin, can be found online at:Website: ⁠https://www.terraprojects.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidirwinarchitect/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terraprojects/Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsarchitecture, David Irwin, Terra Projects, Gaudi, desert living, migration trends, urban culture, Project 17, poetics of architecture, extreme environments

In this conversation, Barbara Strait shares her journey of creating two successful businesses: a travel agency and Pickleball in Paradise. She discusses the challenges she faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, how she scaled her travel agency, and the importance of intellectual property in her new venture. Barbara emphasizes the significance of knowledge in sales and offers valuable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the need for proper training and understanding of business operations.TakeawaysBarbara started her travel agency during her time as a stay-at-home mom.She created Pickleball in Paradise during the COVID-19 pandemic.Barbara emphasizes the importance of branding and trademarking.She scaled her travel agency by leveraging her Disney planning experience.Networking with professional players helped market her pickleball trips.Barbara teaches her team the importance of product knowledge.She advises aspiring entrepreneurs to prepare their back office before starting.Understanding accounting and operations is crucial for business success.Barbara effectively balances her business with being a mom.She collaborates closely with resorts to enhance the customer experience.Today's guest, Barbara Strait, can be found online at:Website: ⁠https://pickleballinparadise.com/Website: https://straightawaytravel.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barb-strait-506076143Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠KeywordsPickleball, Travel Agency, Entrepreneurship, Business Growth, Marketing Strategies, Intellectual Property, COVID-19 Impact, Travel Industry, Business Advice, Networking

In this conversation, Jeff Weller, co-founder of Lion Real Estate Group, shares his journey in real estate investment, focusing on multifamily housing and workforce housing in high-growth cities. He discusses the importance of raising capital, building investor relations, and navigating market cycles. Jeff emphasizes the significance of transparency and trust in the investment process and offers advice for aspiring investors, highlighting the need for a good partner and the fun in the business.TakeawaysInvesting in multifamily housing can yield strong cash flow.Building a successful real estate business requires a great partner.Navigating market cycles is crucial for real estate success.Transparency and trust are essential in investor relations.Real estate investment is a scalable business.It's important to have skin in the game with investors.Understanding the cyclical nature of real estate is key.Investors appreciate when you align interests with them.Starting small, like buying a duplex, can lead to bigger opportunities.Having fun in the business can lead to greater success.Today's guest, Jeff Weller, can be found online at:Website: ⁠https://www.lionreg.com/Profile: https://www.lionreg.com/jeff-wellerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-weller-84aa476Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsreal estate, investment, multifamily housing, investor relations, market cycles, property management, capital raising, investment strategies, transparency, entrepreneurship

SummaryIn this conversation, Bob Knorr shares his journey from finance to founding Timeless Tartans, a collegiate fashion company. He discusses the innovative business model that captures school pride through unique Tartan designs, the challenges of university licensing, and the importance of quality manufacturing. Bob also reflects on future growth opportunities and the impact of his brand story on customers.TakeawaysBob Knorr transitioned from finance to fashion entrepreneurship.Timeless Tartans captures school pride without overt logos.The business model appeals to a wide audience, including alumni and students.Bob's teaching experience influenced his entrepreneurial journey.The unique Tartan designs are based on university founding years and coordinates.Licensing agreements with universities are crucial for brand identity.Quality manufacturing in Italy enhances product appeal.Social media presence is an area for improvement.The brand story resonates deeply with customers, creating connections.Future growth includes expanding product lines and university partnerships.Today's guest, Bob Knorr, can be found online at:Website: ⁠https://timelesstartans.com/Drexel University Article: https://drexeldragons.com/news/2022/1/21/paying-it-forward-bob-knorrs-journey-back-to-drexelLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-j-knorr-iii-12663825Your host, Scott Turman, can be found online at:BrightRay Publishing: ⁠https://brightray.com/⁠⁠⁠Entrepreneur Website: ⁠https://scottturman.com/⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottturman/⁠Keywordsentrepreneurship, fashion, university licensing, business model, Timeless Tartans, Bob Knorr, innovation, manufacturing, growth strategies, brand story