Larsen Jensen, the Founder and General Partner of Harpoon Ventures, is a pioneer in the world of venture capital, having co-founded one of Silicon Valley's first dual-use VC firms, now boasting over $300 million in assets under management. With a keen eye for innovation, Larsen has led numerous investments in defense tech, cybersecurity, AI, enterprise infrastructure, and frontier technology. But Larsen's journey to success is as remarkable as it is multifaceted. Before venturing into the realm of venture capital, he carved out a legacy in the world of athletics, earning two Olympic medals in swimming (2004 and 2008) and setting the American record in the 400m event. Following his Olympic triumphs, Larsen transitioned to serve as a Navy SEAL, further demonstrating his unwavering dedication to excellence and service. With a diverse background spanning investment and asset management roles at prestigious firms including UBS, Goldman Sachs, Andreessen Horowitz, and Lightspeed Venture Partners, Larsen brings a wealth of experience and insight to every conversation. A graduate of USC with a Bachelor's degree and Stanford with an MBA, Larsen's journey embodies the intersection of athleticism, entrepreneurship, and investment acumen. Join us as we uncover the extraordinary stories and invaluable lessons that have shaped Larsen's path to success. Follow Harpoon Ventures on LinkedIn. Follow My Fame, Explained on: Facebook Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube
Delaney Harter is a highly skilled violinist renowned for her contributions to the scores of numerous hit films, such as "Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves," "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," and "Mozart in the Jungle," among others. Notably, she has showcased her talent in diverse platforms, starring in Olivia Rodrigo's music video "driving home 2 u" and featuring in a Cadillac commercial alongside Labrinth. Based in Los Angeles, her musical prowess has garnered her multiple prestigious awards, solidifying her status as a distinguished artist in the industry. Follow Delaney Harter on Instagram. Watch this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LbcUO_nv1P0?si=d7dIwB7I3LYd14Ay My Fame, Explained on the web: https://www.myfameexplained.com/ Follow Larry Gilbert on Instagram. Follow the My Fame, Explained podcast on: - Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/myfameexplained - Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/myfameexplained - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@myfameexplained - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/53513978/admin/feed/posts/ - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@myfameexplained
Devo Harris attended the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania, where he graduated with a in degree in Economics and Strategic Management. Devo then earned an MBA degree from Columbia Business School. He signed his former college roommate, John Legend, to Kanye West’s GOOD Music label in 2003. Devo won the Grammy Award for Best Rap Song in 2006 for his production of "Diamonds from Sierra Leone" by Kanye West (his cousin). He then founded a tech company that developed an interactive video platform called Adventr. Follow Devo Harris on Instagram. Follow the My Fame, Explained podcast on: Facebook Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube
In this episode of My Fame, Explained, we sit down with the wildly talented and charismatic Luke Cook. Known for his devilishly entertaining portrayal of Lucifer in Netflix’s Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Luke has made a name for himself in Hollywood with a mix of charm, humor, and undeniable talent. But his journey to fame is as fascinating as his performances.Luke’s latest project takes him into the world of crime and comedy. Starring as Detective Henry in the CW’s new show Good Cop Bad Cop, Luke plays one-half of a sibling detective duo trying to solve crimes in a small town while dealing with quirky locals, strained relationships, and their police chief father. This comedic crime procedural is set to showcase Luke’s ability to blend humor and drama seamlessly.Luke Cook is not just an actor—he’s a storyteller, a comedian, and an entertainer in every sense of the word. He has amased over 1.7 million followers on TikTok. Tune in to this episode of My Fame, Explained to hear Luke’s hilarious, insightful, and inspiring journey in the world of entertainment.Follow Luke Cook on Instagram and TikTok.Follow Larry Gilbert onInstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
Katie Pumphrey is an American ultramarathon open water swimmer. Katie is a force in the water. On June 25, 2024, she made history as the first person to complete the Bay to Baltimore swim—a grueling 24-mile journey from the Chesapeake Bay Bridge to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. She is also one of the elite few to achieve the Triple Crown of Open Water Swimming, having conquered the English Channel, the Catalina Channel, and a 28.5-mile swim around Manhattan.A graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art, her paintings, sculptures, and installations use abstraction and humor to examine how our imagination shapes our fears. Her art has been exhibited in galleries across the U.S., including solo shows in Baltimore, Washington, D.C., and Key West.Katie is currently training for her 3rd English Channel in 2025.Katie lives in Baltimore City, Maryland with her husband Joe and their dog, Adja.In this episode of My Fame, Explained, we dive into Pumphrey’s artistic process, her mindset as an endurance athlete, and how both worlds intersect in her life. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about pushing limits—on canvas and in open water.Follow Katie Pumphrey onInstagramFollow Larry Gilbert onInstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
Dr. Leonard Kleinrock is a computer scientist who developed the mathematical theory behind packet switching. He sent the first message between two computers on a network that was a precursor of the Internet. His is a distinguished Professor of Computer Science at UCLA. He has published over 250 papers and authored six books. Follow the My Fame, Explained podcast on Facebook and Instagram.
Helena Nicklin is an award-winning, freelance, wine and spirits writer, broadcaster, wine consultant, drinks influencer and judge for various international wine and spirits awards. With twenty two years in the drinks industry, the London based writer's works have been published in newspapers and magazines and is a host of the global, drinks and food travel series, 'The Three Drinkers' on Amazon Prime, which she co-produced. Follow Helena Nicklin on Instagram and visit her website here. The Three Drinkers website here. Follow the My Fame, Explained podcast on Facebook and Instagram. Visit the My Fame, Explained website here.
Barbara Butcher is one of the most seasoned and respected death investigators in New York City history — a woman who has walked into more than 5,500 death scenes and helped identify victims of the 9/11 attacks. Now, she’s the face of Oxygen True Crime’s gripping new series The Death Investigator with Barbara Butcher, produced by Dick Wolf, revealing the hidden clues our bodies leave behind and the secrets only a trained eye can see.In this episode of My Fame, Explained, Barbara opens up about her extraordinary life: growing up the daughter of an NYPD Deputy Inspector, losing everything to alcoholism, rebuilding her career from scratch, breaking barriers as one of the first female medicolegal investigators in NYC, and facing unimaginable tragedy at Ground Zero.She also discusses her acclaimed memoir What the Dead Know, the cases that changed her, the surprising lessons the dead teach the living, and how she transformed her decades of trauma, grit, and expertise into powerful storytelling on screen.If you love true crime, resilience stories, or behind-the-scenes looks at the world’s toughest jobs, this conversation will stay with you long after it’s over.Follow Barbara on Instagram @butcher.barbara and catch The Death Investigator on Oxygen True Crime.Follow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
Olivia Ferney has become the internet’s favorite “luxury travel fixer.” As a senior accommodations specialist for Top Tier Travel and the creator behind @travelwithlivii, she plans extravagant vacations for the ultra-rich — from $100K last-minute helicopter rescues to bespoke hotel stays around the world.In this episode of My Fame, Explained, Olivia opens up about:Her journey from small-town roots to managing elite clients across continentsThe craziest (and most unreasonable) requests she’s ever handledHow she grew over half a million followers by sharing behind-the-scenes travel storiesThe surprising difference between billionaires and multimillionaires as clientsHer rules for maintaining authenticity and boundaries in a world built on excessFrom TikTok fame to luxury hospitality power player, Olivia Ferney shares the real story behind the glamour — and what it truly takes to serve the world’s most demanding travelers.Follow Olivia Ferney on Instagram.Follow her on TikTok.Follow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
When you hear the words “American Pharoah wins the Triple Crown!” or the thunder of hooves down the stretch at the Kentucky Derby, chances are you’re hearing the unmistakable voice of Larry Collmus. For more than three decades, Larry has been the soundtrack to some of horse racing’s most iconic moments, from his early days on the Maryland circuit to calling history on NBC Sports.In this episode of My Fame, Explained, Larry shares how a summer job helping his father at Timonium Fairgrounds sparked a lifelong passion for racing, the nerve-wracking thrill of calling his very first Kentucky Derby in 2011, and what it felt like to deliver one of the most unforgettable calls in sports when American Pharoah ended a 37-year Triple Crown drought.We dive into the art of race calling, the pressure of live broadcasting, and the transition to taking over the Del Mar booth from the legendary Trevor Denman. Larry also reflects on the evolution of the sport, the stories behind the mic, and the lessons he’s learned from a career built on precision, emotion, and timing.Whether you’re a lifelong racing fan or just love hearing the voices behind the moments that make history, this conversation is a masterclass in passion, persistence, and performance. Listen now and discover how Larry Collmus became one of the most recognizable voices in sports.Follow Larry Collmus on Instagram.Follow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
Zina Wilde is redefining what it means to be a modern multi-hyphenate. Best known for her seven-season run on Showtime’s hit series Billions, Zina has built a career that seamlessly blends Hollywood storytelling with holistic wellness.As an actress, writer, and producer, she’s worked alongside icons like Paul Giamatti, Damian Lewis, Richard Dreyfuss, Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, Sally Field, and Rita Moreno — with over 14 short films produced, including The Climb (Cannes Audience Award Winner) and her latest, We Regret to Inform You, now on the festival circuit.But Zina’s story goes beyond the screen. She’s a leader in the booming $1.1 trillion wellness tourism industry, hosting transformative retreats around the world — from Greece to Paris to South Africa — often collaborating with best-selling authors, psychotherapists, and spiritual advisors. Her work merges entertainment, mental health, and personal transformation, helping creatives and leaders find clarity and connection in an overwhelming world.Whether you’re passionate about acting, filmmaking, wellness, or redefining success on your own terms, Zina’s story is a powerful reminder that fame can be a platform for healing, growth, and connection.Follow Zina Wilde on Instagram. Follow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
In this episode of My Fame, Explained, Larry Gilbert sits down with singer-songwriter Elle Winter, who has already connected with millions of listeners through her heartfelt songwriting and powerhouse vocals. From being discovered by Radio Disney’s Next Big Thing as a teenager, to earning a spot as one of People Magazine’s Emerging Artists and performing on iconic stages like The TODAY Show and Jingle Ball, Elle shares her inspiring journey through the music industry.Elle opens up about the personal experiences behind her highly anticipated new EP, Never Even Met Her (out now!), including the title track that was born from heartbreak and transformed into an empowering anthem of self-discovery. She also talks about collaborating with Grammy-winning producers, touring with Chloe x Halle, and how she balances music with her studies at the University of Pennsylvania.Listen to Elle Winter’s brand-new single “Never Even Met Her” here: https://open.spotify.com/track/5xuc6xYKNtiWIwGWkCOOeM?si=8284f4abd3aa4a99If you love stories of resilience, creativity, and music that speaks to the soul, this episode is for you.Follow Elle Winter on Instagram. Follow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
In this episode of My Fame, Explained, host Larry Gilbert sits down with Nicola Gunby, co-founder of the fast-growing social networking app CLIQ—a platform built to solve the loneliness epidemic by bringing people together through shared interests and real-life community events.Nicola opens up about her journey from feeling isolated after moving to London post-pandemic, to launching a global app that's now connecting over 100,000 users worldwide. She shares how her background as a beauty entrepreneur helped shape her career in tech, why traditional social media falls short when it comes to real connection, and what it truly means to build community in today’s digital world.We dive into her early life in Nottingham, her transition from makeup artist to tech founder, and the personal challenges that inspired her to turn a problem into a purpose-driven startup. Plus, Nicola reveals what’s next for CLIQ in 2024 and how she’s working to reshape what it means to truly connect.Follow Nicola Gunby on Instgram and CLIQ App here. Follow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
In this episode of My Fame, Explained, host Larry Gilbert sits down with the dynamic and multitalented Mohamed Karim — a true global force in entertainment. From humble beginnings in Cairo to starring alongside Nicolas Cage, Heather Graham, and Stephen Dorff in the upcoming Lionsgate Western Gunslingers (in theaters April 11, 2025), Karim’s journey is anything but ordinary.Mohamed shares the gripping story of how, at just 16 years old, he arrived in Los Angeles alone, speaking barely any English, and talked his way into El Segundo High School with the simple phrase, “Me attend school here?” That bold step launched a remarkable career that now spans continents and genres.We dive into his acclaimed performances in international hits like Shahata’s Store, Stolen Kisses, and Facebook Romance, which earned him multiple Best Actor awards across the U.S., Egypt, and Europe — including honors from the Arab Film Festival, the Egyptian Oscars, and Monaco’s International Film Festival. Karim also opens up about his time hosting The Voice Arabia, his unexpected journey through medical school, and the power of relentless self-belief.Plus, Mohamed teases what’s next: a series of upcoming films including Storm, Desert Crossing, Tarot, Blooded, and One Love, as well as his highly anticipated conversation at the 2025 Arab Film Festival in LA with filmmaker Brian Skiba.Whether you’re a fan of international cinema, aspiring to break into Hollywood, or just love a good underdog story, this episode will leave you inspired to chase your dreams — no matter where you start.Follow Mohamed Karim on Instagram.Follow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
In this adrenaline-fueled episode of My Fame, Explained, we're riding shotgun with Jorden Halvorsen—a four-time world champion bull rider, fearless trailblazer, and star of Freeform’s hit documentary series Not Her First Rodeo.Jorden opens up about her unexpected journey from English show jumping to dominating the bull riding world, the life-changing decision to ride her first bull at 17, and how that single moment launched her into becoming one of the most recognized female athletes in the sport today.We dive into her creation of The Elite Lady Bull Riders, a groundbreaking all-women's bull riding association aimed at legitimizing and empowering female competitors nationwide. Jorden also shares behind-the-scenes stories from filming Not Her First Rodeo, what it’s really like working with Dale Brisby at Rodeo Time, and how her horse Jessie and golden retriever Star keep her grounded amidst the chaos of life in the arena.Whether you’re a rodeo fan, a docuseries junkie, or someone chasing your own wild dream—this conversation is a powerful reminder of grit, heart, and finding your place in a world that wasn’t built for you.Follow Jorden on Instagram and TikTokFollow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
In this captivating episode of My Fame Explained, we delve into the dynamic world of Elysia Rotaru—a versatile actress, acclaimed voice-over artist, and visionary producer. Elysia's journey is a testament to her unwavering passion for storytelling and her ability to seamlessly navigate multiple facets of the entertainment industry.From her early days in Vancouver, where she cultivated a love for performance through classical piano and theater, Elysia's artistic pursuits led her to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Simon Fraser University. Her on-screen presence has graced popular television series such as Arrow, Psych, Backstrom, and Turner & Hooch, as well as films like Cold Pursuit and Diary of a Wimpy Kid: Rodrick Rules .Elysia's vocal talents have brought life to characters across various media, including Black Canary in Justice Society: World War II, She-Hulk in Marvel Super Hero Adventures, and roles in video games like FIFA and Avowed. Her voice has also been featured in campaigns for global brands such as Nordstrom and McDonald’s .In 2022, Elysia expanded her creative horizons by founding Little Psycho Productions, through which she has co-produced award-winning short films. Her commitment to storytelling and collaboration continues to inspire audiences and creators alike .Join us as Elysia shares insights into her multifaceted career, the importance of adaptability in the arts, and the driving force behind her creative endeavors. Whether you're an aspiring artist or a seasoned professional, Elysia's story offers valuable lessons on passion, perseverance, and the power of storytelling.Elysia's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elysiarotaru/Follow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
In this powerful episode of My Fame, Explained, we sit down with legendary footwear designer Omar Bailey, whose career spans decades and whose impact on the sneaker industry is nothing short of revolutionary. From sketching shoes at just 7 years old to leading innovation at Yeezy/Adidas, Omar’s journey is a testament to creativity, perseverance, and vision.Now at the helm of his own independent, Black-led footwear company, FCTRY LAb, based in Los Angeles, Omar is shaking up the industry. His company is disrupting the traditional footwear model by offering partners more ownership and dramatically accelerating the production process through cutting-edge technology.We dig deep into Omar’s story—from building shoes for stars like Jay-Z, Lady Gaga, and Karim Benzema, to his viral collaboration with rapper NLE Choppa, and the bespoke cleats he's designing with NFL athletes like Jalen Ramsey of the Miami Dolphins. We also talk about his recent spotlight on the new Roku series Visionaries, premiering today, where he was personally hand-picked by Keanu Reeves to be featured.This episode is a masterclass in innovation, hustle, and passion. Whether you're a sneakerhead, entrepreneur, or just love a good origin story—you don't want to miss it.Connect with Omar Bailey and FCTRY LAb: Website: https://www.fctrylab.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fctrylabOmar’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theomarbaileyFollow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
Ever opened a bottle of wine, had a glass, and then watched the rest go to waste? Dana Spaulding felt the same frustration—and decided to do something about it. In this episode of My Fame, Explained, we sit down with Dana, the founder of Wander + Ivy, a premium single-serve wine brand changing the way we sip.Dana shares the personal story that led her to create a beautifully packaged, elevated wine experience for those who love wine but don’t always want to commit to an entire bottle. We talk about the spark that started it all, the challenges of building a brand from the ground up, and how she balances entrepreneurship with motherhood.If you're a wine lover, an entrepreneur, or just someone trying to make smarter choices in your daily rituals—this one's for you.In this episode, you'll learn:The moment Dana realized there was a gap in the wine marketHow Wander + Ivy is redefining the single-serve wine spaceWhat it takes to build a sustainable beverage brand from scratchThe joys and realities of balancing business, family, and wineDana’s favorite varietals and go-to wine pairingsGuest Bio: Dana Spalding is the founder and CEO of Wander + Ivy, a premium wine company offering curated, single-serve bottles made for those who appreciate quality, sustainability, and convenience. What started as a simple desire to enjoy wine without waste has grown into a fast-rising brand changing how—and when—we drink wine.Connect with Wander + Ivy:Website: wanderandivy.comInstagram: @wanderandivyFollow Larry Gilbert on InstagramFollow the My Fame, Explained podcast on:FacebookInstagramTikTokLinkedInYouTube
On this episode of My Fame, Explained, Larry Gilbert sits down with Midwest-based filmmaker Dylan Sires, the creative mind behind the highly anticipated Amazon Prime Video documentary ChiefsAholic. The film delves into the jaw-dropping double life of Kansas City Chiefs superfan Xaviar Babudar, whose passionate fandom masked a secret career as a serial bank robber. Dylan takes us behind the scenes of this gripping true-crime exploration, sharing how he captured Babudar’s arrest, legal journey, and personal story through firsthand interviews and meticulous investigation. We also discuss Dylan’s creative journey as a filmmaker, composer, and producer, from building sets to directing this breakout feature documentary under his banner, Empiricus Pictures. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation about fame, crime, and storytelling. ChiefsAholic is streaming now on Amazon Prime Video. Follow Larry Gilbert on Instagram Follow the My Fame, Explained podcast on: Facebook Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube
In this episode of My Fame, Explained, Larry Gilbert chats with Billboard-charting pop sensation Ashlee Keating. From her Broadway debut at age six in The Sound of Music to her show-stopping pop hits like “YASSS” and “Nice N Naughty,” Ashlee’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. She opens up about her early career highlights, including starring as Annie at Philadelphia's Walnut Street Theater, competing on CBS' Star Search, and becoming a Radio Disney favorite. Now a force in the music industry, Ashlee shares how her empowering lyrics and vibrant style have made her a beloved ally and activist within the LGBTQ+ community. We’ll also dive into her passion for philanthropy, creative process behind her latest holiday single, and how she stays grounded while living her best life. Tune in to hear how this multi-talented artist continues to spread messages of love, positivity, and self-confidence—one beat at a time! Follow Ashlee Keating on Instagram and TikTok. Follow Larry Gilbert on Instagram Follow the My Fame, Explained podcast on: Facebook Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube