Founder's Story

In this Founder’s Story episode, Daniel sits down with Blake Niemann, who went from tinkering in a tiny Jersey City apartment to building Levels into an eight-figure clean-protein movement found in every major retailer in America. Blake shares the decade of discipline, the maniacal focus, and the philosophy that allowed him to beat billion-dollar incumbents without investors, shortcuts, or hype ingredients. Key Discussion Points: Blake opens up about the early days—working a full-time tech sales job while building Levels to three million in revenue entirely solo. He breaks down how he spotted a “sleepy” protein category stuck in outdated bro-science branding and rebuilt it with minimal ingredients and purposeful nutrition. He explains why Levels avoided paid ads until they hit three million, how customer reviews snowballed into category dominance, and why big corporations couldn’t move fast enough to stop him. Blake reveals the hard truths about retail risk, cash discipline, building under pressure, and why most founders fail because they romanticize entrepreneurship instead of embracing the suffering. He gives an unfiltered take on AI, the future of education, and why he believes college is becoming obsolete for future founders. Takeaways: Listeners walk away with a blueprint for building a category-leading brand with no outside capital and no shortcuts. Blake shows how brutal consistency creates breakthroughs, why obsessing over product quality beats marketing hacks, and how to weaponize your disadvantages into advantages. His story is a reminder that entrepreneurship is earned over a decade, not bought in a course—and that the ability to outwork, out-focus, and out-wait the competition is still the ultimate edge in business. Closing Thoughts: Blake’s journey proves that in a world of hype, the founders who win are the ones who stare down the giants, stay on mission, and build brick by brick—even when nobody is watching. His story will resonate with anyone chasing a dream that feels too big, too competitive, or too impossible. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Emily Scott, cofounder of Dance Happy Designs, the first Down syndrome co-founded accessories brand carried by major retailers including Nordstrom and Target. Episode Overview:In this inspiring conversation, Emily shares how she built Dance Happy Designs alongside her cofounder, Julia, how their partnership evolved through unexpected challenges, and how bold design, authentic storytelling, and refusing to blend in opened doors with national retailers. What We Cover:Emily explains how she and Julia began screen printing textile goods in the basement of her clothing store, how Julia took full ownership of production tasks, and how the business model changed after Julia’s leukemia diagnosis. Emily breaks down the stigma they faced, how they overcame questions about quality and viability, and how one small speaking opportunity changed the trajectory of their brand. She also shares how Dance Happy grew into a profitable CPG company with mass retail partnerships and why embracing their joyful, inclusive identity attracted the right customers. Key Takeaways:Authenticity attracts real visibility. Niche brands can outperform bigger players when they stand firmly in who they are. High standards can dismantle stigma. Saying yes to opportunities can unlock life-changing moments. And proving people wrong can be a powerful fuel for founders with something meaningful to build. Closing Thoughts:Emily’s journey is a reminder that purpose and profitability can grow together. Her partnership with Julia continues to shift perceptions around ability and entrepreneurship, and their story shows how small moments can change everything when you are ready for them. Connect with Emily:Website: dancehappydesigns.comInstagram: @dance.happy.designs Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Omar Khan, co-founder of 3-S Consulting, breaks down the core principles of Loving Assertiveness—a communication method shaped through decades of work in conflict zones, corporate power struggles, Fortune 500 boardrooms, and intimate family dynamics. He shares how the same emotional intelligence tools that de-escalate tensions in Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and Lebanon can also repair marriages, unlock stalled company strategies, and transform everyday conversations. This episode reveals why communication fails, how unmet needs drive nearly every conflict, and the practical skills anyone can learn to create breakthroughs in their relationships, leadership, and life. Key Discussion Points Daniel and Omar dive into the story of a hostile workshop attendee in Sri Lanka and how five minutes of emotional clarity transformed a confrontation into connection over tea. Omar explains why most conflict—political, corporate, or personal—comes from unmet needs rather than malice. Drawing on examples from the Oslo Accords, Lebanon, Pakistan, Fortune 500 boardrooms, and everyday marriages, he reveals how strategies differ but human needs remain universal. They explore how polarization rewards outrage, why young people feel forced to “choose a side,” and how emotional intelligence has declined even as education has risen. Omar breaks down the mechanics of Loving Assertiveness: observing without judgment, listening for needs beneath behavior, naming feelings accurately, and co-creating strategies rather than fighting over them. They discuss marriage dynamics, why “you always…” destroys trust, how real empathy defuses defensiveness, and how simple scripts can shift entire relationships. Takeaways Communication is not a talent; it is a trained skill set that most people were never taught. Loving Assertiveness bridges power with empathy, accountability with understanding. Conflict dissolves when underlying needs are recognized—whether between spouses, executives, or political rivals. Polarization thrives when people prefer being right over making progress. Emotional intelligence requires curiosity, non-judgment, and a willingness to hear perspectives that challenge us. Small changes—observing instead of diagnosing, naming feelings without blame, repeating back what you heard—can transform marriages, teams, and entire organizational cultures. Closing Thoughts Omar’s message is clear: if people learned these skills, divorce rates would drop, companies would stop stalling, and political discourse would heal. Communication can change the world one conversation at a time. His book Loving Assertiveness and workshops continue this mission through accessible, practice-driven tools. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Daniel Robbins sits down with Sunil Raina, a visionary technologist and founder of CereBree, a cognitive infrastructure platform designed to reshape how humans and machines coexist. Sunil reveals how his team is building AI systems rooted in emotional intelligence—technology designed to augment human ability, not replace it. Together, they explore the delicate balance between empathy and efficiency, and what it really means to create a “conscious” AI. Key Discussion Points Sunil begins by addressing one of AI’s biggest misconceptions: that it’s here to eliminate human jobs. He explains how CereBree’s mission is to unify fragmented systems—work, learning, and well-being—into one seamless layer of orchestration that simplifies life, not complicates it. He dives into the idea of AI as a personal concierge—a digital companion that learns your habits, anticipates your needs, and offers actionable help, from reminding you to rest after poor sleep to automating daily tasks across travel, healthcare, and personal development. Sunil also explores the ethics of empathy-driven AI: “It’s not about asking, ‘How are you feeling?’ It’s about saying, ‘Here’s what can make you feel better.’” Drawing from decades of emotional intelligence data, he shares how CereBree is building AI capable of sensing human sentiment and offering meaningful, compassionate responses—starting with groundbreaking applications for autism therapy and caregiver support. Finally, the conversation turns personal as Daniel and Sunil discuss the entrepreneurial chaos of chasing too many problems. Sunil’s advice? “The difference between insanity and genius is measured by success. Focus, resilience, and vision—that’s how you build the future.” Takeaways AI’s future isn’t about automation—it’s about amplification. True progress lies in systems that understand human context, emotion, and purpose. Compassion, empathy, and health must anchor every innovation. As Sunil reminds us, the goal isn’t to create smarter machines, but wiser societies. Closing Thoughts This conversation is a rare glimpse into the mind of a founder shaping the moral and emotional backbone of AI’s next era. Sunil Raina reminds us that the future belongs not to the cold efficiency of machines, but to the warmth of intelligence built with humanity in mind. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Daniel Robbins sits down with Jerry Lopez, one of the most impactful philanthropy innovators of the digital age. Jerry—born in Puerto Rico, raised in poverty, and self-made by 25—shares the raw, deeply personal story behind his rise from hardship, why Bitcoin changed his life, and how he built the world’s first philanthropy-driven blockchain ecosystem with Philcoin and PhilSocial. Key Discussion Points Jerry returns to his childhood in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, growing up in a 530-sq-ft home, raised by a single mother working two jobs. He speaks about the moment at age thirteen when his brother arrived home with a pregnant girlfriend—and how watching his mother break down under pressure became the turning point that shaped his entire life mission.He explains how he invented his first device at sixteen, became a contractor by nineteen, and earned his first million by twenty-five—all fueled by an obsession to never be poor again.Jerry then reveals how a friend forced him to learn Bitcoin in 2014, the day a $283 Bitcoin turned into $900, and why he immediately knew blockchain would transform humanity. This insight led him to found Philcoin and later PhilSocial—the first social platform where users actually earn crypto for their time and are required to give half of it away to causes they care about.He breaks down the philosophy behind Faithonomics, why faith is a “currency,” and how belief activates provision before reality catches up. He also shares the brutal setbacks: three bear markets, a $10M rug pull, and building an ecosystem no one had ever seen before. Takeaways Mindset is the foundation of transformation—progress, even tiny progress, rewires belief. Faith fuels vision before results ever appear. Poverty, pain, and setbacks can become the engine for purpose. Crypto’s future is in impact and decentralization, not speculation. And the next generation of global giving will be peer-to-peer—powered by users, not corporations. Closing Thoughts Jerry’s story is a masterclass in resilience, belief, and mission-driven innovation. From a childhood with no streetlights to leading a global movement in blockchain philanthropy, his journey proves that circumstances don’t define destiny—mindset does. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Daniel Robbins sits down with Parker Olson, the creator of PodPitch—the fast-growing platform now responsible for 4–5% of all weekly English-speaking podcast bookings. Parker breaks down the exact zero-to-one steps behind building software without code, finding product-market fit, securing early revenue, and surviving the mental collapse moments that nearly ended his career. Key Discussion Points: Parker shares how a VA using a no-code scraper for influencer outreach accidentally inspired the entire PodPitch engine. He reveals why the biggest mistake founders make is trying to build products they themselves don’t use, and how he validated PodPitch by asking prospects a single uncomfortable question: “Why won’t you give me $10 right now?”He goes deep into pricing strategy, experimenting in real time on sales calls, and how one tiny feature unlocked the entire business. Parker also opens up about living in a tent for two years, getting bed bugs in his camper van, dropping spoiled CPG samples across 60 stores, and being wrongfully arrested—all while bootstrapping his previous company. The conversation expands into the rise of solopreneurs, why “painkillers beat vitamins,” and how AI is shifting the future of work faster than anyone is ready for. Takeaways The best software companies are built by founders solving their own painful problems—not chasing trends. Early traction isn’t about flashy branding; it’s about finding the first person who will pay real money. No-code tools have erased excuses—anyone can build an MVP today. Entrepreneurship is 90% psychological endurance, 10% execution, and the future belongs to solopreneurs solving hyper-specific problems using AI and automation. Closing Thoughts This conversation is a masterclass in honesty, resilience, and the simple frameworks that actually build successful products. If you’ve ever wanted to launch an app—or escape the traditional 9–5—this episode will flip a switch inside you. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Daniel Robbins sits down with Dan Novaes, the visionary behind Mode Mobile. What began as a $1,000 project at age fifteen evolved into a company now valued at over $300 million—with more than 57,000 shareholders. Novaes opens up about the brutal realities of scaling, the crash that nearly ended it all, and how a bold pivot into crowdfunding changed everything. Key Discussion Points:Novaes recounts his journey from early entrepreneurial experiments to building Mode Mobile, where he faced near collapse after losing major advertisers like FTX and Voyager. He reveals how discipline, mindfulness, and a pivot to equity crowdfunding helped Mode raise over $60 million directly from users. He also breaks down the importance of product-market fit, the mental toll of leadership during crises, and how to stay adaptable in fast-changing industries. Takeaways:Entrepreneurship is a cycle of peaks and freefalls. Novaes emphasizes that every business must pivot or perish—and that growth requires deep strategic thinking, not just relentless action. He credits his company’s resurgence to embracing transparency, connecting directly with everyday investors, and using setbacks as springboards for smarter, more sustainable scaling. Closing Thoughts:From teenage hustler to tech CEO, Dan Novaes proves that resilience, reinvention, and relentless focus can turn even the darkest chapters into defining wins. His journey with Mode Mobile is a masterclass in building a movement, not just a company. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Daniel Robbins sits down with Dr. Cali Estes Founder of Sober on Demand and The Addictions Academy, to uncover her extraordinary journey—from being homeless and broke to building a multi-million-dollar global addiction recovery empire. Cali opens up about how she started her business with just $300 and rent due, why she was forced to take on an industry that tried to destroy her, and the personal battles that shaped her mission. Key Discussion Points:Cali reveals what really happens inside the world of addiction recovery and why traditional rehab often fails. She shares unfiltered stories of working with celebrities, athletes, and CEOs at the top of their game—people who look invincible on the outside but are struggling in silence. She also breaks down her controversial but effective biohacking approach, from parasite cleanses to peptides, explaining why 90% of mental health issues aren’t mental at all, but physical. Takeaways:Listeners will learn why hitting rock bottom can be the most powerful catalyst for entrepreneurship, how mindset and manifestation can literally put your rent money in the bank overnight, and why treating the body—not just the mind—may be the real breakthrough for mental health. Dr. Cali’s story proves that standing your ground against critics, even when they come for your reputation, can flip an industry on its head. Closing Thoughts:Addiction, burnout, and mental health crises don’t just happen to “other people.” They can hit anyone—founders, celebrities, athletes. Dr. Cali Estes’ mission through Sober on Demand and The Addictions Academy is a reminder that recovery is possible, disruption is necessary, and the right mindset can turn the darkest moments into unlimited possibilities. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Daniel Robbins sits down with Dr. Tara to explore how technology, intimacy, and human connection are colliding in ways we’ve never seen before. From sex robots and AI partners to ethical non-monogamy and the myth of “natural” sexual skill, Dr. Tara challenges the biggest assumptions about love, relationships, and pleasure. Her new book, How Do You Like It?, gives people the tools to discover their sexual identity and build stronger connections. Key Discussion Points:Dr. Tara shares her perspective on why robots and AI will become a normal part of relationships, and how our fears mirror the same resistance society once had to the internet and porn. She explains why the real issue isn’t the technology itself, but how people choose to consume it. She also opens up about living in an ethical non-monogamous relationship, the skills needed to make it work, and why communication—not monogamy—is the foundation of lasting intimacy. Beyond the taboo, Dr. Tara breaks down why boredom is the number one relationship killer, the role of “erotic solutions” in reigniting desire, and how sexual meditation can transform both individuals and couples. Takeaways:Listeners will learn why the belief that “sex should come naturally” is one of the most damaging myths in relationships, and how adopting a growth mindset in intimacy can be life-changing. Dr. Tara emphasizes that sexual competence is a skill—something that can be learned, practiced, and improved. She also shows why communication, novelty, and education are the secret weapons to long-term happiness. Closing Thoughts:Dr. Tara is on a mission to spread sex-positivity and shatter the stigma around intimacy. As she reminds us, love, sex, and connection are not static—they’re evolving. And with the right mindset, they can evolve into something extraordinary. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Daniel Robbins sits down with Monika Sundem to explore how Adventure Life has built a reputation for journeys that go beyond sightseeing—offering connection, transformation, and purpose. From navigating the unpredictable waters of Antarctica to witnessing the wildlife of the Galapagos, Monika shares the magic of destinations that change travelers forever. She also reveals how her team survived the near-collapse of the travel industry during COVID, staying transparent with customers while holding onto integrity and trust. Key Discussion Points:Monika describes the awe of walking among curious wildlife in the Galapagos and the vast, untouched beauty of Antarctica’s big skies. She explains why Adventure Life travelers aren’t just tourists—they’re adventurers seeking movement, flexibility, and meaning in their journeys. The conversation dives into emotional stories, from a widow retracing the Antarctic crash site where her family died, to a cancer patient finding renewed purpose by traveling across South America. Monika also shares her perspective on the impact of social media on tourism, the future possibilities of space travel, and how transparency and integrity helped Adventure Life rebuild post-pandemic. Takeaways:Listeners will learn why travel can be deeply personal and even healing, why adaptability matters more than itineraries, and how responsible tourism can benefit local communities instead of harming them. Monika also highlights why integrity in business—especially during crises—is what builds long-term trust with customers and staff. Her stories remind us that travel is not just about seeing new places, but about making connections, experiencing humility, and finding meaning. Closing Thoughts:Travel can be life-changing—whether it’s honoring loved ones, exploring the farthest corners of the earth, or finding happiness in unexpected places. For Monika Sundem, leading Adventure Life isn’t just about booking trips; it’s about creating experiences that last a lifetime. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Daniel Robbins sits down with Jonathan Kaufman Iger to uncover how Sage has thrived for more than a century in one of the most competitive real estate markets in the world. Jonathan shares the company’s journey from its founding in 1924 by his great-grandfather to becoming a multigenerational force in NYC real estate, and how Sage is redefining office buildings through innovation, hospitality, and experience. Key Discussion Points:Jonathan explains why 90% of companies fail before 10 years—and how Sage has lasted over 100. He details how the company has pivoted across real estate asset classes to anticipate cultural and economic shifts, from post-WWII workforce growth to today’s hybrid-work era. He also shares how Sage builds loyalty not with flashy amenities but through hospitality-driven experiences, like branded umbrella programs and concierge services, setting a new standard for office life. Takeaways:Listeners will learn why the New York office market isn’t “dead” but transforming, how experience has become the new currency of commercial real estate, and why Sage’s long-term success is rooted in generational vision rather than short-term exits. Jonathan also highlights how blending hospitality into real estate isn’t just survival—it’s the blueprint for the next century of urban life. Closing Thoughts:Sage’s 101-year legacy proves that lasting businesses aren’t built on short-term hype—they’re built on adaptability, vision, and a relentless focus on customer experience. Jonathan Kaufman Iger’s story is both a history lesson and a roadmap for building companies that stand the test of time. Get more leads and grow your business. Go to https://www.pipedrive.com/founders and get started with a 30 day free trial. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Ben Glinsky uncovers the truth about the supplement industry — an opaque $150 billion market where overpriced products and shady “proprietary blends” have become the norm. Ben shares how LiveGood is flipping the script by making premium-quality, fully transparent supplements available at a fraction of the cost, creating a model that already attracted millions of customers in record time. Key Discussion Points:Ben exposes the industry’s “dirty secret”: most supplements hide actual ingredient dosages behind proprietary blends, while marking up products 5–10x their cost. He explains why consumers have been conditioned to associate high price with high quality — and how LiveGood is breaking that illusion by offering USDA-certified organic products with published lab tests at near-cost pricing. Daniel and Ben also dive into the company’s unique membership-driven, affiliate-fueled growth model, the power of transparency in building consumer trust, and why adapting to AI-driven commerce is key to staying ahead in health and wellness. Takeaways:Listeners will learn how to spot misleading supplement labels, why the average consumer quits after 3 months due to pricing, and how LiveGood’s Costco-style membership model makes health sustainable and affordable. Ben shares personal insights on walking away from the industry when it felt ethically broken, only to return with a mission-driven approach that’s reshaping consumer expectations. His story is a reminder that passion and purpose — not just profit — fuel enduring business growth. Closing Thoughts:The supplement industry isn’t just about wellness products — it’s about trust, transparency, and accessibility. With LiveGood, Ben Glinsky is proving that entrepreneurs can scale a global company while putting consumers first. Learn more at https://livegood.com/ Get more leads and grow your business. Go to https://www.pipedrive.com/founders and get started with a 30 day free trial. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Ken Boyce to discussed why CyberGlobal USA is tackling one of the fastest-growing threats of our time—cybersecurity for small businesses. With the global cybersecurity market projected to hit $500 billion by 2030, Ken explains how his company is bringing enterprise-level protection to the 33 million small businesses that remain largely unprotected. Key Discussion Points:Ken reveals how AI has transformed cybercrime from a “fishing pole” to a “fishing net” game, making it possible for hackers to cheaply target even the smallest companies. He compares the fight against cybercrime to cops and robbers—hackers trying to break in, cybersecurity firms racing to block them. He also explains why most small businesses can’t afford the same protections as Fortune 500 firms, and how CyberGlobal’s franchise model changes the game by making cybersecurity scalable and affordable. Takeaways:Listeners will learn why 60% of small businesses shut down after a major cyberattack, why prevention is far cheaper than reacting after the fact, and how AI is both the biggest weapon for hackers and the strongest defense for security firms. Ken also shares his vision for franchising as a distribution model, creating “trust networks” across the U.S. that put cybersecurity within reach for millions of vulnerable companies. Closing Thoughts:Cybersecurity isn’t just about Fortune 500 firms anymore—it’s about protecting the backbone of the economy: small businesses. Ken Boyce’s mission at CyberGlobal USA is clear—helping entrepreneurs survive in an era where AI-driven hackers never sleep. Learn more at www.cybergl.com Get more leads and grow your business. Go to https://www.pipedrive.com/founders and get started with a 30 day free trial. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Prepare for a paradigm shift! Chad unpacks why you can't earn your way to financial freedom – you have to invest your way there. This isn't just about money; it's about building a 'Fully Invested' life where you win in business and at home. In this deep dive, you'll discover: The Investment Imperative: Why disciplined investing, not just higher income, is the true engine of lasting wealth. Challenging Entrepreneurship: When the 'go all in' myth might actually be a trap, and how to assess your true path. Purpose Beyond the Paycheck: What actually brings joy and significance to ultra-successful individuals once financial worries are gone. Work-Life Alignment, Not Balance: Why chasing an elusive "work-life balance" creates guilt and distraction, and how to integrate your life for maximum presence and impact. The Strategic NO: Learning to filter decisions with "good, better, best" to protect your most valuable asset: your time. Chad shares a powerful, relatable story from a family vacation. Delegation Over Control: The common habit among high-achievers that unknowingly destroys their wealth and stunts growth. Finding Your Working Genius: How focusing on your natural strengths transforms business growth and personal fulfillment. Tony Robbins' Lasting Impact: Chad shares insights and inspiration from his interactions with growth-focused legends. Get Chad's newest Best-Selling book, "Fully Invested": fullyinvested.com Connect with Chad Willardson: chadwillardson.com Get more leads and grow your business. Go to https://www.pipedrive.com/founders and get started with a 30 day free trial. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode of Founder’s Story, Alejandro Cuauhtemoc-Mejia joins to discuss how Silicon Valley Certification Hub (SVCH) is bringing standards and trust to AI adoption worldwide. From his perspective inside Silicon Valley, Alejandro reveals why executives—not technology—are the primary reason AI fails within organizations, and why SVCH’s certification is becoming the gold standard for responsible, strategic AI use. Key Discussion Points: Alejandro explains why 87% of corporate AI projects fail before they ever scale. He outlines the three levels of AI adoption—strategy, operations, and ethics—and why so many executives focus on the wrong layer. He shares insights into why “AI everywhere” doesn’t always translate to innovation and how SVCH certifies organizations in a way that signals trust to investors, partners, and customers. We also explore the hidden truth that few in Silicon Valley admit about AI adoption and why the companies that treat AI as the new electricity are the ones most likely to thrive. Alejandro also touches on surprising research that shows why people often trust chatbots more when they sound like robots rather than humans. Takeaways: The conversation highlights that AI fails in corporations because of people, not because of the technology itself. Executives must embrace and guide adoption for real change to happen. Standards and certifications like SVCH are going to be critical as AI becomes as commonplace as electricity. The businesses that win won’t simply add “AI” to a pitch deck but will build strategies that integrate talent, culture, and ethics. Trust will define the next era of AI, and those who can prove responsible adoption will attract investors, clients, and partners. Closing Thoughts: Alejandro Cuauhtemoc-Mejia is on a mission to make AI adoption trustworthy, strategic, and impactful. With SVCH’s seal of certification, businesses can show the world they’re ready for the AI-powered future—one built on standards, trust, and real results. https://svch.io/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pavitra describes commuting from New Jersey to New York before remote work existed, holding client meetings while deciding whether to miss a school play, and starting her first company in 2008 when Wall Street was on fire. She didn’t set out to be a CEO; clients from a collapsing firm pulled her into entrepreneurship, and a former CFO wrote the first check. Years later, COVID grounded her flights and exposed how fragile main street really was. A talk with her hairdresser—a friend and mother in her son’s circle—revealed the gap: local merchants were juggling siloed tools while big-box stores thrived on integrated tech. DealMagik was her answer: unify the messy stack and give mom-and-pop shops enterprise-grade capabilities without enterprise-grade pain. Key Discussion:Pavitra reframes “mom-guilt” as an incomplete story: presence matters, but so does modeling problem-solving at home. Her son, now a PhD student, grew up in the spillover of dinner-table debriefs about customers, product choices, and resilience; that, she says, was its own kind of presence. She walks through the real leap from employee to owner: writing every check yourself, discovering that scaling requires constant storytelling and sales, and learning that credibility in SMB land is won delivery by delivery, not pitch by pitch. As an immigrant founder, English wasn’t her first language, and she names the cultural and linguistic adjustments that fed years of self-doubt. The antidote was curiosity—the habit of asking how trades settle on Wall Street and, later, how salons, florists, and restaurants actually run their days. Curiosity led to competence; competence quieted the doubt. On AI, she’s optimistic: technology will change jobs, shorten the week, and rewire work, but it will also open new doors if we choose to walk through them. For founders considering a leap, she offers a grounded rule: get to the basics of the problem, solve it in small circles, and let trust compound. Takeaways:Ambition and family aren’t opposites when you bring your learning home. The difference between corporate and founder life is owning every line item and every outcome. Local business tech doesn’t fail for lack of tools; it fails for lack of integration and trust. Curiosity is a founder’s renewable energy; self-doubt loses to evidence. The future of work will be different not just in tools but in tempo—and platforms like DealMagik show how that future can reach the corner shop as surely as the Fortune 500. Closing Thoughts:Pavitra’s story isn’t a victory lap; it’s a field manual. She built through crisis twice, turned guilt into grit, and is now arming small businesses with the rails they lacked when the world shut down. If you want to see what practical optimism looks like, watch where DealMagik shows up next—and who it keeps in business. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As an NYU student, Anthony mined ETH until the dorms “asked him not to come back,” collected early NFTs, and—after a lucky GameStop options win—bought a $95K Banksy print with two friends for one reason: to burn it and sell the moment as an NFT. The plan was part dare, part experiment, not a get-rich scheme. What followed was a week of whiplash: Vice photos, Forbes first coverage, BBC calling for comment and publishing a slam thirty minutes later, a Toyota Camry breakdown on the Van Wyck with a Banksy in hand, and a final sale near $400K. The hate was real; the lesson was bigger. Being anonymous forced him to let action speak, and the public’s confusion exposed a harder truth: crypto, as used by normal people, was unusable. That’s the seed of Xion—make crypto disappear behind experiences people already understand. Key Discussion Points:Anthony unpacks how the Banksy burn wasn’t destruction but translation: moving value from paper to a new medium and testing whether culture would accept it. Half the crowd called it idiotic; the other half called it genius—and he admits he didn’t know which it would be. The post-burn months became a proof loop: dozens of Clubhouse NFT launches, a window into how attention compounds when the product is simple and the story is clear. He contrasts that with today’s Web3 friction—seed phrases, bridges, gas, Metamask—and makes the case that Xion exists to remove all that: walletless by default, mobile first, sign-in with familiar IDs, and rails that let products ship without forcing users to learn crypto. We drift into the value of anonymity as an innovation unlock—embarrassment becomes cheaper, experiments get bolder—and the double edge of social media, the most potent dopamine machine in history and the new gatekeeper of distribution. On AI, he’s pragmatic: it’s a calculator for creativity—an amplifier, not a replacement—shrinking the menial so people can actually say something. He loves the mischief brand of guerrilla making and hints that once the platform is ready, the provocations will return—this time at scale, powered by Xion. Takeaways:Attention is today’s currency, but utility is tomorrow’s moat. The Banksy burn proved that narrative can vault a new medium into relevance; the years after proved that unless crypto feels like nothing—no wallets, no jargon, no hurdles—most people will never cross over. Xion is built around that thesis: hide the chain, surface the value, meet users where they already live (their phone and their existing login), and let developers build products people touch without noticing the rails. Anonymity can catalyze audacity; simplicity sustains it. Closing Thoughts:Anthony’s arc reads like a thesis: provoke to reveal the seams, then engineer them away. If Guernica turned pain into picture, Burnt Banksy turned a picture into protocol—and Xion is the rails that make the protocol disappear. If you see him at Korea Blockchain Week, ask about the next stunt; odds are, the art will be the interface and the chain will be invisible. Get more leads and grow your business. Go to https://www.pipedrive.com/founders and get started with a 30 day free trial. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We begin with the question people rarely ask an artist directly: what does an artist’s life actually look like? Charles Edelman answers with a life-in-stories—New York studios, MoMA walkabouts, and a candid aside that meeting Andy Warhol was “boring.” He frames his practice at Charles Edelman Masterpieces as a “mental gym,” a place where discipline, curiosity, and play keep boredom at bay and skill compounding. His book Crashing Waves of Passions threads through the conversation: Van Gogh’s legend (including “the ear”), Susan Valadon’s overlooked power beside Toulouse-Lautrec, and a time-travel tableau that situates these spirits in modern rooms to explain the disabilities they navigated and the work they made. He rejects the doom story that artists only matter after death—he’s lived well, taught at Dartmouth, trained in a gifted program at Yale, and painted twelve-hour summer days by choice. The episode pivots to purpose: inspired by Picasso’s Guernica, he’s raising support for a ten-by-thirty-foot mural that does the opposite—an explosion of joy, love, and light—arguing that beauty can heal as forcefully as outrage can indict. Key Discussion Points:Charles traces how early memories of light became a lifelong motif, and how quiet places—Belize jungles, Cusco skies, Cozumel shores—strip away noise until people find themselves. He argues that creativity is teachable; a seventy-something student gave up golf because making art felt truer. Corporate teams, too, can be rewired: give them constraints, history in forty-five minutes, and a playful brief, and they’ll surprise themselves—just like his billionaire students tasked with designing family-friendly paintings for a Central Park restaurant. He tells a lineage story through Marcel, the eighty-three-year-old master printer for Picasso and Dalí, who looked at Charles’s work and said, “He would love it.” There are gallery-wall brags and grounded details—charity projects, low pricing for collectors who return for ten to fifteen pieces, a recent New York Weekly profile—and there’s a standing invitation: he believes one painting can change how we see, maybe even lift a tragedy’s weight. Takeaways:Art isn’t mysticism; it’s method. Show up early, work long, keep it fun, and your eye will catch more light. The myths about artists suffering to matter are lazy; a sustainable life is possible with craft, community, and a clear offer. Inspiration multiplies in silence; go somewhere quiet and your hand gets honest. Great teaching unlocks dormant makers—whether they’re executives, students, or “not creative” friends. And if Guernica proved painting can channel horror, a monumental counter-image of joy can be just as world-shaping. Closing Thoughts:Charles Edelman’s stories make the studio feel less like a pedestal and more like a train you can board. If you want on, start with one page, one sketch, one hour—then repeat. To see the work, commission, or study, visit CharlesEdelmanMasterpieces.com or find Crashing Waves of Passions on Amazon. Ditch the other hiring sites, and let ZipRecruiter find what you’re looking for — the needle in the haystack. Try it FOR FREE at this exclusive web address: ZipRecruiter.com/WORK. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We open with the question everyone secretly asks: can a life really change that much? Dr. Stoyana Natseva answers with names and outcomes, not platitudes. Through Happy Life Academy, she’s watched Tatiana Markova move multiple sclerosis into remission, rebuild family bonds, and buy her first home, and Tsetsa Dimitrova outlive a one-month cancer prognosis to become a holistic therapist who now mentors others. Those stories anchor her thesis: when mind, emotion, and habit align, health and circumstance can follow. She dismantles the “I’ll be happy when…” script—more money, more success, more love—and insists that happiness isn’t deferred; it’s practiced now. Social comparison and cultural conditioning (the “matrix,” as she calls it) train us to chase what’s missing; her work re-trains attention toward gratitude, abundance, and authorship. The entrepreneur in her is direct: treat happiness as a skill. Start with awareness and acceptance, then do the reps daily—writing, meditation, loving action, community. Key Discussion Points:The conversation stays close to the real lives behind her frameworks. We explore how labels like “I’m damaged” become convenient autopilots—and how observing thoughts proves we aren’t our thoughts. Dr. Natseva maps the unlearning arc she teaches: notice honestly without shame, choose a creator identity over a victim identity, and rehearse new beliefs through practices that involve mind, feelings, and body. Gratitude is central but not a slogan; it is specific, sensory, and active—thanking the sun, the meal, the breath, the lesson inside the setback—until the nervous system recognizes abundance as home base. She challenges the hidden cost of an unhappy life: illness in the body, erosion of self-worth, fractured families, and years quietly stolen. Even simple physiology supports the shift—a genuine smile feeds back to the brain, making anger hard to sustain. When listeners ask how to begin, she keeps it simple: write what’s true, name three real gratitudes, sit in stillness for a few minutes, and repeat. The point isn’t perfection; it’s momentum. Takeaways:Happiness is not an outcome to acquire later but a discipline to practice today. By choosing the stance of creator—“I am not a victim of circumstances”—and pairing it with small, repeated actions, the story changes from the inside out. Gratitude reframes trauma as curriculum, not identity; attention placed on emptiness multiplies emptiness, while attention placed on abundance multiplies abundance. Community accelerates change because it interrupts isolation and offers models to mirror. Start where you are, feel what you feel without punishment, and move one honest step at a time. Closing Thoughts:Dr. Natseva leaves us with a decision rather than a dare: choose happiness as a daily act. When thoughts, emotions, and actions line up, life follows. If you’re ready to practice, her programs at Happy Life Academy turn the idea into a method—and the method into a life. Closing Thoughts: Dr. Natseva’s message is simple but profound: happiness is not a gift or a circumstance—it’s a choice. And the cost of not choosing it could be your health, your family, and your future. Get more leads and grow your business. Go to https://www.pipedrive.com/founders and get started with a 30 day free trial. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We open by challenging a midlife myth: “you’re getting old, expect decline.” Dr. Hosen Kiat counters that aging is plastic—biology is modifiable—illustrated by his ninety-six-year-old mother’s daily hour-long walks after hip surgery and his own “mind overdrive” routine that gets him training on days he least feels like it. The conversation locates prevention where he believes true healing lives: at the meeting point of modern cardiology and time-honoured medical traditions. He explains why Western medicine excels at acute saves (stents, bypass, resuscitation) but underinvests in prevention, and how his Wisdom from Two Worlds philosophy—and his platform at DrKiat.com—helps patients pair evidence-based care with practices that build harmony and resilience over decades. Key Discussion Points:The episode maps the levers that truly add healthy years: Mediterranean-leaning meals with fewer ultra-processed carbs and deep-fried foods; more plants and lightly cooked dishes; routine movement (“any movement beats none”); restorative sleep; and trainable responses to stress. He distinguishes measurable load from the stress we manufacture in our interpretation—two people can finish the same task with identical results yet feel completely different based on mindset—so part of heart health is training reactions. Social connection isn’t optional either; loneliness, he notes, carries cardiovascular risk comparable to smoking, making community a medical issue, not a luxury. On misinformation, he shares a clinic vignette: a couple arrives certain—thanks to social media—that a 70% blockage “needs a stent.” It didn’t. The point isn’t to shame patients but to restore standards: ask for credentials, weigh evidence, and individualize decisions. For listeners in their thirties and forties, he outlines the first medical mile: get a baseline cardiac assessment and labs, review family history, blood pressure, glucose, lipids, inflammatory markers, and signs of chronic infection; then tailor further testing with your physician. Takeaways:Healthspan bends to habit. Train what you eat, how you move and sleep, how you meet stress, and who you stay connected to, and biology follows. Prevention is the main event: marry cutting-edge cardiology with proven traditional practices, treat community as medicine, verify before you medicalize social-media advice, and get a baseline assessment in your forties so you’re not flying blind. Most importantly, start small and daily—one walk, one better plate, one calmer reaction—repeated until they become identity. Closing Thoughts:Dr. Kiat’s message is disarmingly practical: decline isn’t a sentence but a series of choices. If you build “healthy habits” and guard your mindset, your heart—and your years—change course. Prevention today is the price of freedom tomorrow. Get more leads and grow your business. Go to https://www.pipedrive.com/founders and get started with a 30 day free trial. Ditch the other hiring sites, and let ZipRecruiter find what you’re looking for — the needle in the haystack. Try it FOR FREE at this exclusive web address: ZipRecruiter.com/WORK. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.