The Innovators

Inspiring Dreams with Pierre Buljan: A Journey Through Bay Area Real Estate and InnovationIn this episode of the Innovators Radio Show and Podcast, host Tom interviews Pierre Buljan, owner of the Buljan Group, a renowned Bay Area family luxury real estate company affiliated with Compass. Pierre reflects on his journey growing up in San Mateo, his deep connections within the Silicon Valley community, and his interactions with notable figures in sports and business. He shares his gratitude for the diverse and innovative environment of the Bay Area and talks about how it has shaped his personal and professional life. The discussion also touches on the inspirational environment and culture of grit that characterizes San Mateo County.00:00 Introduction and Opening Remarks00:26 Welcome to the Innovators Radio Show01:01 Introducing Pierre Buljan02:10 Pierre's Personal and Professional Philosophy04:30 Reflections on Growing Up in San Mateo05:23 Inspiration from Silicon Valley06:29 The Global Appeal of Silicon Valley

Chuck Brennan: From Serial Entrepreneur to Dollar Loan Center FounderIn this episode of the Innovators Podcast at Stanford, Chuck Brennan, founder and president of Dollar Loan Center, shares his entrepreneurial journey. Brennan discusses his early experiences starting businesses from sixth grade, his venture into the entertainment industry, and his transition to short-term lending. He highlights the importance of company culture, promoting employee longevity, and providing a welcoming and professional environment for customers. Brennan elaborates on Dollar Loan Center's mission to fill the gap in short-term lending amidst bank limitations, emphasizing trust and transparency in client relationships. He also shares insights on the company's community involvement, employee engagement, and future aspirations for financial product expansion.For more information, visitwww.dontbebroke.com00:00 Introduction and Employee Experience00:47 Guest Introduction: Chuck Brennan01:19 Chuck Brennan's Entrepreneurial Journey03:06 Founding Dollar Loan Center03:45 Business Challenges and Successes05:16 The Payday Lending Industry09:36 Customer Trust and Business Ethics19:53 Company Culture and Employee Engagement25:30 Future Goals and Community Involvement28:18 Closing Remarks and Final Thoughts

Investing with Passion and Purpose: A Conversation with eToro US Head Andrew McCormickIn this episode of the Innovators Podcast, host Tom DiOro is joined by Andrew McCormick, head of eToro US. Andrew discusses his passion for investing in companies he loves, particularly relating to brands like Chipotle that resonate with his family. Throughout the conversation, Andrew highlights the importance of making investing accessible and fun, emphasizing eToro's mission to educate and empower new investors. He shares personal stories about his journey from a large financial company to eToro, the impact of his family and faith, and his commitment to breaking down barriers to investing. Listen in to learn about Andrew's vision for expanding financial literacy and his dream of increasing stock market participation among all Americans.For more informationwww.etoro.com00:00 Introduction to Investing with Passion00:48 Meet Andrew McCormick: Family and Career03:37 The Journey to eToro04:53 Personal Challenges and Professional Growth08:03 Empowering New Investors16:17 Future Goals and Legacy27:14 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Mastering Discipline and Emotional Resilience in Trading: Insights from Juan Carlos RianoIn this episode of the Innovator's Podcast, host Tom interviews Juan Carlos Riano, CEO and education consultant at Smart Capital Club. They discuss the psychological aspects of trading, emphasizing the importance of discipline, emotional control, and resilience. Juan Carlos shares his journey from a high-stress encounter with financial scams to establishing Smart Capital Club, a platform offering comprehensive financial education and trading services. He highlights the significance of a solid educational foundation, the role of physical fitness in managing stress, and the process of developing a disciplined trading strategy. The episode also delves into the importance of trust in financial services and offers advice for aspiring traders and entrepreneurs.For more information visit:smartcapitalbroker.com00:00 Introduction to Trading Emotions00:29 Welcome to The Innovator's Show01:01 Meet Juan Carlos Riano02:21 The Importance of Discipline in Trading03:15 The Story Behind Smart Capital05:17 Managing Emotions in Trading07:55 The Role of Fear in Trading Decisions09:42 Building Trust with Clients13:58 The Discipline of a Trader24:46 Advice for Aspiring Traders27:48 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Revolutionizing Payments with Franklin Levy: Instant Direct Payments at OpenPathIn this episode of The Innovators Radio Show and Podcast, hosted by KZSU Stanford University's FM radio station, Franklin Levy, a partner at OpenPath, discusses the transformative technology of instant direct payments. The conversation delves into the changes in online payment methods, benefits to both merchants and consumers, and the future of financial transactions. Levy shares insights on the innovative capabilities of OpenPath's payment system, highlighting its advantages over traditional credit and debit card transactions. The episode also explores his personal and professional motivations and the importance of trust and dedication in driving technological advancements.For more information visit:openpath.io00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:51 Overview of Instant Direct Payments03:09 History and Evolution of Payment Systems07:57 Benefits of Instant Direct Payments for Consumers and Merchants12:15 Fraud Prevention and Security Measures16:30 Personal Insights and Experiences19:11 The Importance of Trust and Vision in FinTech26:40 Future of OpenPath and Closing Remarks

Reviving Gold Mining in Colorado: An Interview with Franklin LevyIn this episode of the Innovators Radio Show and Podcast, host Tom Dioro interviews Franklin Levy, co-founder and managing director of GS Mining Holdings. Franklin shares the history and operations of GS Mining in Gilpin County, Colorado, known as the richest square mile on Earth due to its abundant gold deposits discovered in 1859. The conversation covers the historical context and challenges of mining in the area, Levy's personal journey from iron ore mining in China to Colorado, and modern advancements in gold extraction technologies and sustainable practices. Levi also discusses the potential of new financial innovations, such as gold-backed tokens through a partnership with Dignity Gold. The episode highlights the revival of a historic industry with contemporary technologies and methods, aiming for a sustainable and profitable future.For more information, visithttps://www.gsminingholdings.com/00:00 Introduction to the Innovators Radio Show00:49 Meet Franklin Levy: Passion for Gold Mining01:10 The Rich History of Gilpin County Gold04:03 Franklin's Journey from Iron Ore to Gold05:47 Challenges and Triumphs in Gold Mining11:02 Modern Gold Mining Techniques and Sustainability21:43 Innovations in Gold Extraction24:14 Future Prospects and Collaborations26:22 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Innovators Podcast: From Holiday Lights to Emergency Services – The Journey of Ascender SystemsIn this episode of the Innovators Podcast, host Tom Dioro interviews Jorge and Ethan Muniz, the dynamic father-son duo behind Ascender Systems. Beginning with the inventive solution to putting up Christmas lights, their journey led to the creation of a prototype robotic climber. The discussion covers overcoming the challenges of customer pushback, the evolution of their prototype, and their aspirations to aid emergency services with cutting-edge technology. Jorge and Ethan share insights into their product's journey, its potential impact, and the personal growth they experienced through pitching their innovation at competitions worldwide.Ascender Systems has designed a patented lightweight robotic solution for climbing up various vertical structures (e.g. poles, pipes, columns). Each "climber" robot can carry and install a "leave-behind" with a personalized customer-selected payload that best meets their needs. Our "climber" can optionally return to the ground to be reused. Customizable "leave-behind" systems can include communications relay, lighting, thermal detections, cameras, and/or satellite uplink.For more information about Ascender Systems, visit the website https://ascendersystems.com/00:00 Introduction to Ascender Systems00:59 Meet the Founders: Jorge and Ethan Muniz02:08 The Mantra: There Has to Be a Better Way03:14 From Christmas Lights to Emergency Services04:21 Challenges and Customer Discovery08:08 Prototyping and Iterations12:02 Competitions and Funding13:31 Future Prospects and Personal Growth21:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Supply Chain Transparency and Innovations with Jeff GausIn this episode, host Tom Dioro interviews Jeff Gaus, founder and CEO of the Provenance Chain Network (PCN). They discuss key issues in the supply chain, including eliminating shrink and addressing Uyghur cotton issues, as well as the broader implications of supply chain transparency. Jeff explains the origins and mission of PCN, and how they use blockchain technology for supply chain transparency. He also shares his personal philosophies, the company's values, and their strategic focus areas, including space asset resilience with the U.S. Space Force and non-citizen guest worker credentials. The conversation touches on Jeff's background, the organizational culture at PCN, and his broader impact on youth business education and housing solutions.For more info visithttps://www.theprovenancechain.com/00:00 Introduction to Supply Chain Challenges00:40 Meet Jeff Gaus: Founder and CEO of Provenance Chain Network01:16 Jeff's Guiding Principles and Motivations03:53 The Origin and Mission of Provenance Chain Network06:00 Innovative Solutions for Supply Chain Transparency09:42 Collaborations and Achievements18:03 Corporate Culture and Values at Provenance Chain Network27:04 Jeff's Personal Mission and Community Service28:50 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

This episode features Herbert Dwyer, CEO of EMPEQ, discussing the challenges and solutions in the energy sector post-pandemic, focusing on workforce dynamics and technological advancements. Dwyer shares insights from his varied background in sectors such as software, real estate, and energy efficiency, leading to the creation of EMPEQ and the innovative Fast Site Survey app which significantly reduces energy audit times. He highlights the importance of adopting new technologies, like artificial intelligence, to improve efficiency in building audits and the impact of such technologies on creating employment opportunities. The conversation also touches on Dwyer's personal and professional mantras, the role of grit and determination drawn from his Marine Corps experience, and the broader implications of energy efficiency for environmental sustainability and business profitability. The episode encapsulates EMPEQ's mission to leverage high-tech solutions for 'good,' enhancing operational efficiencies and fostering a culture of excellence and growth.For more information on EMPEQ, visit empeq.co00:00 The Impact of the Pandemic on the Workforce00:27 Introduction to KZSU Stanford University's FM Radio Show00:36 Spotlight on Herbert Dwyer: From Energy Audits to EMPEQ01:50 Herbert Dwyer's Personal and Professional Mantras02:37 The Philosophy of Risk and Innovation in Engineering03:40 The Role of Grit and Determination in Success06:48 Leveraging AI for Workforce Efficiency and Innovation10:39 Addressing the Labor Shortage with Technology11:30 AI for Good: Creating Opportunities in the Workforce11:53 Leonid Capital Partners: Supporting Small and Medium Businesses12:43 FastSight Survey: Revolutionizing Field Engineering Work25:46 The Importance of Energy Efficiency and Entrepreneurial Spirit

Empowering Innovation and Team Culture with Brandon Dekker of Cannon DesignThis episode of the Innovators Radio Show and Podcast on KZSU Stanford features an interview with Brandon Dekker, a principal and office practice leader at Cannon Design, a living-centered global design firm. The discussion explores Dekker's leadership philosophy, emphasizing team culture and the quote 'pleasure in the job puts perfection in the work.' The conversation delves into Cannon Design's client relationship strategy, focusing on shared values and trust, and the importance of integrity, intent, capabilities, and results in building trustful relationships. Dekker highlights how technology advancements and project delivery methods have evolved in the design and building industry. The episode also touches on Cannon Design's commitment to sustainability, team culture's significance, and the impact of sports on Dekker's leadership approach. Public service announcements for CHOC Children's Hospital and Habitat for Humanity are included. The interview concludes with Dekker sharing his vision for elevating others through courageous design and actions.For more information, visit cannondesign.com00:00 Welcome to the Innovators Radio Show and Podcast00:35 Spotlight on Brandon Dekker and Cannon Design01:30 The Philosophy of Team Culture and Trust03:57 Client Relationships and Project Success Stories09:57 The Evolution of Design and Building Industry12:05 Sustainability and Innovation at Cannon Design14:38 Personal Insights and Leadership Philosophy17:24 Community Engagement and Final Thoughts

Embracing Transformation and Innovation in Engineering and LeadershipIn this episode of the Innovators Radio Show and Podcast from KZSU Stanford University, host Tom Dioro interviews Vince Dipofi, the CEO and professional engineer of SSOE, a global project delivery firm for architecture, engineering, and construction management. Vince shares his insights on the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on the engineering industry, emphasizing the necessity of innovation and adaptability to prevent obsolescence. He also discusses the pivotal changes his company underwent during the COVID-19 pandemic, transitioning to a more flexible, virtual working environment that leverages global talent. Highlighting his experience with heart surgery, Vince details his personal connection to the American Heart Association and how it has influenced his empathetic leadership style. The episode underscores the importance of continuous learning, embracing change, and maintaining a forward-thinking mindset in both personal and professional realms.00:00 A Bold Vision for the Future: Embracing AI in Engineering00:39 Introducing The Innovators Radio Show and Podcast01:20 Spotlight on Vince DiPofi: Engineering a Legacy of Innovation02:11 Turning Adversity into Opportunity: Leadership Lessons from the Pandemic07:59 Embracing Change and Innovation: The CEO's Perspective18:51 The Reshoring of America: Impact on the Building Design and Architecture Industry22:23 A Personal Journey: Vince DiPofi and the American Heart Association26:26 Leadership, Learning, and Legacy: Closing Thoughts from Vince DipofiFor more information visitwww.ssoe.com

Innovation Through Architecture with Stan Lew, AIA President of RMW This Innovators Radio Show episode, hosted by Tom Dioro and broadcast from Stanford University's KZSU, features an engaging conversation with Stan Lew, AIA, the Principal and President of RMW architecture and design firm. The discussion delves into the importance of adopting an innovation mindset in architecture, how transportation and urban development can benefit from embracing the third dimension through electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOLs), and the concept of designing for a dynamic world to address societal challenges. Stan Lew shares insights into how RMW, under his leadership, focuses on client-centric and human-centric design solutions that foster growth, adaptability, and innovation in various sectors, including technology, healthcare, and sustainable food production. The episode also touches on the transformative impact of technology on design processes and the future opportunities presented by generative artificial intelligence in the industry. Additionally, Lew encourages embracing technology meaningfully to improve lives, emphasizing the ethical considerations that come with technological advancements.00:00 The Future of Transportation and Urban Planning00:27 Introducing The Innovators Radio Show and Podcast01:00 Spotlight on Stan Lew: Leadership and Innovation at RMW01:35 The Essence of Innovation and Its Impact Across Industries03:25 The Role of Design in Addressing Societal Challenges14:19 Exploring the Growth Mindset and Technological Evolution at RMW19:29 A Deep Dive into a High Velocity Innovation Center Project23:19 The Personal Drive Behind Stan Lew's Passion for Design24:31 Embracing Technology for a Better Future25:27 Wrapping Up: The Innovators Radio Show and PodcastFor more information visitwww.rmw.com

Combating Veteran Suicide Through Gaming: The Story of Stack UpThe Innovators Radio Show and Podcast featuring an in-depth interview with Steve Machuga, the founder and executive director of Stack Up, an organization dedicated to combating veteran suicide through gaming. Steve shares his journey from serving in Iraq, where video games helped him cope, to founding Stack Up in 2015. Stack Up supports veterans and fosters community through gaming initiatives such as the Stacks, Supply Crates, Air Assaults, and the Stack Up Overwatch Program (STOP). The organization also collaborates with the VA to address veteran suicide, highlighting the need for community and support beyond traditional methods. The challenges of fundraising and the importance of volunteers are discussed, alongside the impact Stack Up has had on veterans' lives by offering them a sense of belonging and an escape through gaming. The podcast touches on the changing perceptions of gaming in society and the potential for growth and support in this unique intersection of gaming and veteran assistance.00:00 Introduction to Stack Up: Combating Veteran Suicide Through Gaming00:34 Launching The Innovators Radio Show and Podcast01:26 Meet Steve Machuga: The Force Behind Stack Up02:26 The Power of Gaming in Veteran Support04:14 The Genesis of Stack Up06:32 Expanding Impact and Facing Challenges10:36 The Stark Reality of Veteran Suicide18:55 The Journey of Fundraising and Staying Afloat21:40 The Future of Gaming and Veteran Support25:01 Closing Thoughts and How to Get Involved

Eleanor Hayden, founder of Hayden ConsultancyAfter managing the Convenience and Gas business for Pepsico in Utah, Eleanor moved on to Kodiak Cakes to build out the shopper marketing department from the ground up and later did the same at Siete foods. In June of 2021, she ventured out on her own to start Hayden Consultancy. This episode of the Innovators Podcast features Eleanor Hayden, founder of Hayden Consultancy, a shopper marketing consulting firm for CPG brands. Eleanor discusses the importance of the human element in managing retail marketing campaigns, emphasizing the limitations of AI in understanding the nuances of seasonality, in-store promotions, and consumer behavior. She highlights her journey from working in major corporations like PepsiCo and Siete Foods to founding her consultancy, which now aids over 30 brands with their retail media programming and marketing strategies in the US and Canada. The conversation also touches on the challenges and opportunities within shopper marketing, the strategic approach of Hayden Consultancy in manually managing campaigns, and Eleanor's personal motivation and background in entrepreneurship. Furthermore, the episode covers the significance of data-driven decisions augmented by human intuition and creativity in achieving success in the dynamic landscape of consumer goods marketing.Visit Hayden Consultancy atwww.haydenconsultancy.comShow Notes00:00 Introduction to Hayden Consultancy's Approach00:58 About the Innovators Radio Show and Podcast02:10 Introduction to Eleanor Hayden and Hayden Consultancy03:08 Eleanor's Personal and Professional Mantra04:22 Eleanor's Approach to Leveling Up06:03 The Importance of Staying Scrappy in CPG09:41 The Role of AI in Managing Campaigns14:20 The Human Element in Eleanor's Work16:21 Eleanor's Entrepreneurial Journey21:24 Closing Remarks and Contact Information22:17 Outro and Acknowledgements

Christopher Lay, CEO and Co-founder of Leonid.Christopher (Chris) Lay is a co-founder of Leonid Capital Management. His background includes professional practice in the Healthcare, Financial Services, Technology, and Specialty Finance industries and significant experience operating in Private Equity and Hedge Fund investment environments.Feel free to visit their website at https://leonidfinance.io/ 

Today we are honored to welcome Parth Trivedi. CEO and co founder of Skylo technologies, the world's most ubiquitous and affordable network that connects any machine or sensor. Trained as an aerospace engineer, Parth has led various missions in aerospace projects at MIT sponsored by the US Department of Defense, NASA, and FAA. Parth has a bachelor of science in aeronautical and astronautical engineering from Purdue University, an MS in aeronautics and astronautics from MIT, and an MBA from Stanford University GSB. Feel free to visit their website at https://www.skylo.tech/

Today we're honored and excited really excited to to welcome Joelle Flynn, founder, inventor and co CEO of FunkkOff. And Sonia Hounsell, co founder and president of FunkkOff. Feel free to visit their website at https://funkkoff.com/

Today, we’re honored and excited to be joined by Eugene Johnson. Eugene is the CEO of Revi, a technology solution that drives revenue through consumer data and relationships, like e-commerce sites. Revi elevates the consumer experience by digitizing the purchasing process, allowing consumers to build consumer profiles, personalize their experience, and be rewarded throughout the purchasing journey. To learn more, feel free to visit their website at https://www.getrevi.com/#/.

Terry Dry is an award-winning marketer, entrepreneur, strategic advisor, CEO, and executive coach. As the founder of Future Proof Advisors, Terry specializes in advising mid-market businesses and their executive teams on how to overcome barriers that inhibit growth.Regarded as a “pragmatic visionary," Terry is best known for pairing innovative thinking with practical solutions that help organizations transform their operations and achieve meaningful success.  Not only does Terry advise existing companies, but he also builds and transforms his own ventures. Most recently, he co-founded, scaled, and then profitably exited, RSVD, a SaaS business that provides digital capacity management solutions for retail, food, and hospitality industries. After two years, RSVD successfully merged with Whyline, a leading provider of virtual queuing and appointment tech. Then, just one year later, Whyline was acquired by security identity company, CLEAR (NYSE: YOU), resulting in a profitable exit for RSVD and partners. Terry is a consumer engagement pioneer, who prior to Future Proof Advisors, co-founded and scaled Fanscape, one of the first-ever social media marketing agencies, which he grew from an initial $10K investment to an eight-figure acquisition by Omnicom (OMC: NYSE). Terry began his career in the music industry, culminating with his role as VP, Artist Development at Interscope / A&M Records (Universal Music Group).Feel free to visit their website at https://futureproofadvisors.com/

Todays guest is Toni Alexander, president and creative director at Inter Communications Incorporated. Inner communications Incorporated is a full service branding and marketing firm specializing in real estate and resort projects worldwide. Feel free to visit their website https://intercommunications.com/