Once Upon A Startup

Today, I’m joined by Steve Hershberger- an entrepreneur, innovator, and endurance athlete with a story that’s nothing short of extraordinary.Steve has built and led companies across technology, analytics, and manufacturing, and he holds 13 U.S. patents in IoT and decision science. His work has always been about one thing: transforming insights into growth strategies and unlocking new, sustainable profit pools.But Steve’s journey goes deeper. Over the years, he’s studied what really drives human and organizational Flow and from that, he developed the S.E.A.T. process for Organizational Flow™.Outside of business, Steve is an endurance athlete who has competed in some of the toughest gravel cycling races across North America and Iceland. And it was on that path that life threw him its greatest challenge. In May 2024, just days before the legendary Unbound 200, Steve was the victim of a hit-and-run that stopped his vitals for several minutes. He came back from a near-death experience with a broken back, broken neck, and a dozen other injuries.And yet here he is. His recovery and resilience fuel the way he now teaches and leads: helping organizations disrupt the static that short-circuits Flow, shift from “can’t” to “possible,” and build cultures of high performance.This is more than entrepreneurship. It’s about survival, purpose, and unlocking Flow in business and in life.

Today I have with me Alfredo Mathew III—a social entrepreneur, educator, and systems thinker who has spent more than 25 years at the intersection of education, workforce development, and entrepreneurship.Alfredo began as a public school teacher in the South Bronx, Oakland, and Pasadena—so dedicated to his students that he was named Teacher of the Year back in 2003. From there, he moved into building bridges between classrooms and careers, leading the Bay Area office of the Network For Teaching Entrepreneurship and connecting thousands of young people to Silicon Valley pathways.He went on to co-found ESO Ventures, an organization that didn’t just support entrepreneurs but actually changed state law in California to fund inclusive entrepreneurship. In just four years, ESO helped incubate over 500 Black and Brown-owned businesses and secured tens of millions in investment for community-rooted enterprises.Today, Alfredo is the Founder and CEO of SPCC.1—the world’s first Shared Prosperity Community Corporation. His vision is bold: to create a new kind of economic infrastructure where communities can consolidate small businesses, access growth capital, and build their own engines of shared prosperity.He’s also a TEDx speaker, where he calls for nothing less than sovereign wealth for the people and an economy that is truly owned by the communities it serves.I’m excited to dive into this conversation with Alfredo, because it’s not just about entrepreneurship—it’s about rewriting the rules of who gets to participate and who gets to own the future.

Bryan Yates is the founder of Locomotiv Coaching, where he trains insanely capable people—people who are not stuck because they lack talent, but because they’re still relying on old instincts that no longer serve them.Bryan doesn’t talk about productivity hacks or promise transformation. What he offers is what he calls a Strategic Reset—a way to help high performers access the gears they already have but rarely use.His work is shaped by three very different worlds:Listening deeply through his years of Holocaust testimony workTraining precisely, with insights from competitive cyclingAnd leading sustainably, through production experience at DisneyOur conversation today is about performance without burnout, rewiring without self-help platitudes, and finding your way back to clarity—not by doing more, but by noticing better.

My guest today is someone who’s not just seen the evolution of intellectual property law—he’s helped shape it across continents.Prof. Dr. Heinz Goddar is a European Patent Attorney based in Munich, and a Partner at Boehmert & Boehmert. He holds a PhD in physics and teaches IP law at the University of Bremen, Bucerius Law School in Hamburg, and the Munich Intellectual Property Law Center. He’s also a Visiting Professor at universities across Asia and the U.S.He’s a past president of LES International, an IAM Hall of Fame inductee, and a name that regularly appears on global IP expert lists. His recent work includes co-editing Trade Secrets Throughout the World and contributing to the Modern Guide to Patents—so when he speaks about the interface between patents and trade secrets, people across law, academia, and industry listen.In this conversation, we explore how trade secrets can complement patent protection, especially in a world where litigation is long, enforcement is patchy, and speed to market matters. It’s a practical, strategic, and global view on how companies—especially startups—can protect what makes them valuable.

In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the world of patent monetization—a space where innovation meets strategy, and where ideas can become assets, or just... paperwork.I’m joined by Raoul Diaz Morales, founder of Ona Patents and a seasoned telecommunications engineer with years of experience turning patents into real-world value. Raoul isn't just a technical expert—he's a strategist who understands what makes a patent work in the business world.In our conversation, we break down:What makes a patent effective beyond just being granted,The real process behind patent monetization, andThe common misconceptions patent holders have that can cost them dearly.Whether you’re a founder with a provisional draft or a seasoned patent holder wondering why your portfolio isn’t paying off—this episode is for you.Let’s get started.

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome back to Once Upon A Startup! You know I love bringing you founders and creators who challenge the status quo, and today’s guest is no exception.Meet Christopher Sellers—a creative genius, entrepreneur, and author who doesn’t just think outside the box… he redesigns the whole damn thing. He’s the kind of person who looks at a problem and sees opportunity, someone who has built a career proving that innovation isn’t about resources—it’s about mindset.Christopher has already made waves with his first book, and now he’s gearing up to release his second, Why Smart People Aren’t Creative—a title that already has me hooked. We’ll talk about what holds people back from true creativity, how he’s built a business around pushing boundaries, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.So if you’ve ever felt like you have big ideas but struggle to bring them to life, or if you just love hearing from people who challenge the way we think, stick around—this is going to be a great one. Let’s dive in!

In this edition of Once Upon A Startup, I’m thrilled to introduce someone who has been transforming the way organizations think about intellectual property and innovation: Sam Zellner.https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-zellner-ipSam’s journey is inspiring. He’s an IP strategist and innovation leader who has completely redefined how intellectual property can drive business success. Instead of treating IP as just a supporting function, Sam has positioned it as a key player in shaping strategies and achieving growth.Through his work with InspireIP and PQAI, Sam is helping businesses unlock their full inventive potential. InspireIP (inspireip.com) is a game-changer—a user-friendly platform that makes capturing and managing ideas so much simpler. It helps teams streamline their invention processes and ensure innovations align with what the business truly needs.Then there’s PQAI (projectpq.ai), an AI-powered prior art search engine that takes the guesswork—and a lot of the time-consuming effort—out of patent searches. It provides smart, precise results, making life so much easier for inventors and IP professionals alike.Sam’s vision is clear: innovation should be accessible to everyone. He’s helping businesses capture more ideas, refine them, and turn them into assets that fuel growth and safeguard their futures.I’m so excited to dive into Sam’s journey, the story behind these groundbreaking tools, and how they’re helping organizations embrace innovation like never before. Stay tuned—you’re about to meet someone who’s making waves in the world of IP and innovation!

Hey everyone, welcome back to Once Upon a Startup! Today, I’m excited to introduce someone who’s all about building the foundational power of confidence—something every entrepreneur and leader needs in spades. Meet Nadine Pfeiffer, the founder and CEO of HopStair, a company dedicated to helping individuals and teams boost their confidence and leadership skills.Nadine’s mission is clear: empower others to reach their full potential. Whether it’s through workshops, webinars, speeches, or one-on-one sessions, she’s on a mission to tackle the big challenges like imposter syndrome and leadership development. Her approach is anything but ordinary—it's innovative, bold, and designed to create real social impact.From career development coaching to team building, Nadine offers a wide range of services that are as fresh and unique as they are effective. And she doesn’t just stop at coaching—she’s also the mind behind a confidence-building app that’s helping people everywhere step into their power.Nadine draws inspiration from a variety of sources, always thinking outside the box to deliver something new. Whether you’re looking to level up in your career, build a stronger team, or simply gain the confidence to take the next big step, Nadine is here to guide you.I can’t wait to dive into her journey and learn more about how she’s helping people build confidence and leadership from the ground up. Welcome to the show, Nadine!

Our guest today helps SMEs transform their IP into IP rights that actually make sense. 🌟 She trains them on Intellectual Property, Dispute resolution and Risk management. 🌟 She assists parties in solving their IP conflicts through expert determination, mediation, or strategic advice to navigate tricky negotiations. 🌟 She inspires female legal professionals through personalized coaching and mentoring, and help them build their authentic online presence. With 20 years of experience in Intellectual property law and strategy, further enhanced by risk management, coaching, mediation, and data privacy expertise, as well as MBA and LL.M. degrees, our guest is multi talented. In addition to being a golfer, a trained barista and with a secret dream of owning her own vineyard and coffee shop someday, Maria Boicova Wynants makes Superman want to hide in shame.

Welcome to another episode of Once Upon A Startup! Today, we have an extraordinary guest, Paul Watkins, joining us. Paul's life is a blend of gripping adventures, resilience, and diverse expertise. He's not your typical professional – Paul is a qualified Pharmacist, high-altitude mountaineer, ultramarathon runner, motivational speaker, property developer, dedicated dad, and an occasional adventure racer. For over two decades, Paul has immersed himself in various challenges, from conquering iconic mountains across seven continents to claiming podium finishes in some of the world's most grueling ultra-marathons. His unique experiences and relentless pursuit of discipline have sculpted his perspective on life and success. Paul doesn't just climb mountains; he helps others scale their personal summits. Through storytelling, he shares profound insights, guiding teams on building discipline, fostering anti-fragility, and crafting an internal narrative that ignites performance in all aspects of life. He holds an MBA, yet he's just as comfortable maneuvering a forklift as he is in the boardroom. Often likened to a 70/30 mix of Harry Potter and Bear Grylls, Paul's journey is a testament to unwavering determination, and today, he's here to share his fascinating story and wisdom with us. Let's dive in and learn from his incredible experiences

In Part 2 of out chat with Donn Gurule, we catch Donn talking about his fascination with intellectual property. How he built a fabulous portfolio, taught himself all about IP and his advice to entrepreneurs, founders and investors to take intellectual property seriously. Donn also talks about generative AI being a poisoned well. Come, give it a listen!

Bodhisatwa Dasgupta or Bo as he is known among friends and followers is an award winning creative director who has spent more than 18 years in advertising. He's worked at Ogilvy, Wieden & Kennedy, JWT, Rediffusion, Grey and Dentsu. Some of the brands he's helped build are Pepsi, Honda, Jabong, MG Motor, Motorola, Sprite, Milkbasket. Bo was once voted one of the hottest creative directors of India by Impact Magazine. (I personally think he retains the honor). Bo now runs The Voice Company, an independent content and advertising agency. He also runs Copywriting with Bo, a platform where he trains young copywriters to become better at their game. Tedx speaker, Clown of a father, Restless child. Listen in to this amazing chat with Bo!

Today we explore the fascinating world of finance and investment through the eyes of our exceptional guest today. With over a decade of experience in Finance and Investment Banking, Andres has honed his analytical skills and developed a profound passion for all things finance. Throughout his career, he has had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse array of industries, ranging from SaaS and Health Tech to Banking, Fintech, Industrials, and Agriculture. But what truly sets Andres apart is his unwavering belief that every business owner should have the knowledge and tools to comprehend, optimize, and defend the value of their company. Driven by this conviction, Andres made a bold career move to become a freelance investment banker with a clear mission: to demystify the complexities of finance for entrepreneurs and business owners. From valuing innovative Fintech companies in Latin America to guiding ventures through the intricacies of ceasing operations, each project has reinforced his commitment to empowering founders and investors with the insights needed to make informed financial decisions. Andres brings a unique and creative problem-solving perspective to the world of finance. Today, he is dedicated to helping businesses navigate their financial landscapes and unlock their full potential. So, get ready to dive deep into the financial world with Andres Oconitrillo on today's episode.

Our guest is not just an entrepreneur; they're a problem solver and a team developer with a unique ability to execute with speed and precision. Over the past 11 years, they've embarked on a dynamic entrepreneurial adventure, leaving an indelible mark in various industries. Welcome Roger Jacir! With a portfolio of six businesses under their belt, Roger has delved into the realms of retail, distribution, and manufacturing, navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship with unwavering determination. Roger's journey has been a testament to the highs and lows of business ownership. Roger's story is not just one of success; it's a narrative of resilience and learning. Roger has experienced both the thrill of successful exits, with three ventures achieving remarkable results, including a sale to a publicly traded company worth $10 million, and the valuable lessons gleaned from two ventures that didn't pan out as planned. But the entrepreneurial spirit burns brighter than ever. Today, Roger is on a mission to tackle one of the most pressing issues in Latin America—solving the lending problems that impact countless lives. Roger's dedication to making a positive impact in the region is nothing short of inspiring. So, if you're ready to dive deep into the world of entrepreneurship, problem-solving, and team development, fasten your seatbelts because today's podcast episode promises to be an enlightening journey with insights that can reshape your perspective on business and innovation. Without further ado, let's welcome Roger 2and embark on this incredible conversation!

Introducing the remarkable Karim Ullah, a force to be reckoned with in the culinary world! Karim is the proud owner of a Bangladeshi fusion restaurant in Stansted, but his journey is so much more than a menu. He's tasted both success and failure, and each time he's faced a setback, he's bounced back stronger than ever. Karim is the embodiment of resilience and reinvention. But Karim's creativity doesn't stop at the kitchen. He's a true innovator, having ventured into the world of beverages. He's crafted his own beer, concocted a unique gin, and mixed up some tantalizing cocktails. Beyond his impressive culinary and mixology skills, Karim is a warm and humble human being. His great mind is matched only by his sense of humor, making him not just a culinary maestro but also a delightful personality to be around. Karim's journey of ups and downs, paired with his boundless creativity and warm-hearted nature, is truly an inspiration.

Welcome to the podcast, where we dive into the stories of visionary leaders who are shaping the digital landscape. Today, we have a trailblazer in every sense of the word—Lorde Astor West. Lorde Astor West is more than an entrepreneur; she's a true visionary. As the Technical Founder & Business Strategist at RadHash, she's been at the forefront of revolutionizing the modern web. In the early 2000s, she embarked on her entrepreneurial journey with 23D, determined to transform business operations through custom web applications. Starting as a bootstrapper, she quickly turned 23D into a thriving enterprise, driven by word-of-mouth referrals. Recognizing the power of data-driven products, she shifted gears in 2016 and launched Papr.cloud in 2017—an innovation that set the stage for her commitment to rapid digital transformation. In 2018, she unveiled the Scratchware platform, marking a pivotal moment in her journey. Today, as the lead engineer and product owner at RadHash technologies, Lorde continues to push boundaries and pioneer cutting-edge solutions. Her knack for generating ideas and bringing them to life is nothing short of remarkable. But it's not just vision; it's execution. Lorde has personally invested over $2 million and countless hours into the creation of the Rad Framework. She's successfully closed fundraising campaigns, positioning RadHash at the forefront of the low-code/no-code automation revolution. Her unwavering dedication, technological expertise, and entrepreneurial acumen make her a true leader in the digital transformation arena. Join us as we delve into her inspiring journey and insights that are shaping the future of innovation.

Ladies and gentlemen, today's podcast guest is a true powerhouse in the world of communication and brand representation. As the founder of Brand Champion Bootcamp, they've dedicated themselves to a mission—to empower ambitious startup founders and senior leaders to step confidently onto the stage of opportunity. Imagine a world where you, as a leader, can effortlessly represent your business on any platform or stage, radiating confidence and expertise. Well, our guest today is the architect of that world. Brand Champion Bootcamp, their brainchild, is a dynamic, CPD-certified eLearning program. It's not just education; it's transformation. Through a hybrid blend of online tutorials and live coaching, it equips leaders with the skills to shine in the spotlight. 🌟 But that's not all. Our guest is also the driving force behind The Media Trainer, where they deliver corporate workshops to multinational organizations worldwide. These workshops are custom-tailored to suit both the brand and the individual participants. It's about creating communication strategies that resonate and leave a lasting impact. With over 25 years of experience under their belt, our guest has become a maestro in the realms of communications, media training, and messaging workshops. They've worked with a diverse array of spokespeople across sectors and industries, helping them not just communicate, but truly connect. Today, we're diving deep into the art of strategic and impactful communication, and our guest is here to share insights that can transform the way you present yourself and your business. So, without further ado, please join me in welcoming the brilliant mind behind Brand Champion Bootcamp and The Media Trainer.

Today, I'm thrilled to introduce a true trailblazer in the world of research, design, and activism. Meet Petra, a multi-award-winning researcher, designer, and a fearless activist who has made it her mission to delve into the realms of wellbeing and tackle the toughest of taboo topics. But what sets Petra apart from the crowd is her groundbreaking work. She's not just discussing taboo subjects; she's revolutionizing the conversation. In fact, she holds the remarkable title of being the world's first person to structurally address these hushed-up issues, turning them into powerful agents of change. 🌟 Her 'building blocks' framework for designing around taboo topics has not only turned heads but has also taken her to prestigious platforms worldwide, from conferences and talks to universities and corporate boardrooms. ⚡ What's fueling this incredible journey? Petra's unique blend of expertise—a decade of design and art experience, a deep well of knowledge in positive psychology, and a life story that spans seven countries, three continents, and countless cultural settings. ✈️ But here's the real kicker: Petra is not just an accomplished professional; she's a relentless explorer of knowledge and a connector of souls. She's as curious as they come, as ambitious as they get, and her boundless energy is infectious. Ladies and gentlemen, fasten your seatbelts because today's podcast episode is going to be an enlightening journey through the world of design, psychology, and breaking down societal barriers. Please join me in welcoming the extraordinary Petra!"

Don’t you love a good story? One where you are snuggled up beside a fire with a mug of tea listening to grandma narrate something about a princess and an ogre? Adulting makes us forget the simple joy associated with a story. So we bring you something new- Once upon a start-up Founders are busy creating their businesses. Most times though they are riddled with self- doubt. They need mentoring. But they do not know whom to approach. How to ask. They need connections. They need strategic partnerships, not financial funding. Investors are a treasure trove of knowledge. So much experience. So many founders, pitch decks, and funds allocated. They do not have the time to counsel each founder individually. Wouldn’t it be amazing if we got a bird’s eye view of the journey of founders, the troubles they face, and some cool start-ups in the making while also learning about investor mindset, cold e-mails, due diligence, and funding? “Once upon a start-up” is a show where we chat with a founder/investor/mentor in each episode. We learn about the foibles, the mistakes, the learnings wrapped in stories- just like the ones grandma told you. In today's episode we bring to you Marshall Davis Jones. A poet, a thinker, a communicator and an expert in de-escalating conflicts. Marshall Davis Jones is the founder and CEO of MindBodySpeak, a company that helps leaders and organizations communicate effectively and authentically in high-stakes situations. He has over 15 years of experience as a vocal communication expert, strategic storyteller, and affective presence coach, working with renowned speakers, industry leaders, and various organizations from youth development to law enforcement. As an author, 4x TEDx speaker, and UN MIPAD honoree, Marshall Davis Jones has a global reputation and influence in his field. He is also a voice-over artist, speech writer, and narrative consultant for documentaries and think tanks. He sits on multiple advisory boards for tech companies as an expert on human vocal performance and presence. Marshall Davis Jones is passionate about empowering people to use their voice as a tool for building trust, resolving conflicts, and creating positive change.

In a twist of events, the host has become the guest and Qudddus Pourshafie has taken the host's spot for the day. Listen to my journey as an IP evangelist and as Quddus draws a narrative out of my "all over the place" responses. With this episode I have respect and admiration for my guests as they try to understand the questions, anticipate the direction the host is trying to take the story in and answer them, as you see week after week.