The Accelerator with Michael Conniff

In this episode, we sit down with Dave Liniger, the  founder of RE/MAX LLC and author of "The Perfect Ten." Dave shares his journey, starting with the inception of RE/MAX LLC in 1973. RE/MAX is one of the leading real estate empires globally.Dave reflects on the challenges faced in revolutionizing the real estate industry with a model focused on empowering agents and offering higher commission rates.Throughout the conversation, Dave emphasizes the importance of adaptive leadership and humility, highlighting the pivotal role of his partner, Gail Main, in RE/MAX's early success. He delves into the evolution of RE/MAX's business model, stressing the need for continuous adaptation to stay ahead in a dynamic market.Dave's insights extend beyond business strategy; he draws inspiration from historical figures like Sir Ernest Shackleton, illustrating timeless leadership principles of resilience and empathy.Listeners gain valuable insights into RE/MAX's customer-centric approach, with Dave discussing the implementation of Net Promoter Score (NPS) to gauge satisfaction and drive operational improvements.Aspiring entrepreneurs will find Dave's advice on navigating challenges particularly resonant. He encourages entrepreneurs to stay connected to their purpose and persevere through adversity with unwavering determination.The episode concludes with Michael announcing the release of Dave's book, "The Perfect Ten," inviting listeners to delve deeper into the lessons shared by this entrepreneurial luminary.

In this episode, we delved into the journey of Jeremy Luceris, Investor, Founder & CEO in Fintech & SaaS. He is a serial entrepreneur with a track record of eight successful exits. Jeremy emphasized that while some might hear about his eight exits and envision glamour, the reality is quite different. "It's not glamorous at all," he clarified. "These weren't all successful exits. Some of them were quite painful because I didn't have a choice." He added, "So it's funny because whenever someone asks me, 'Wow, how do you do that?' I have to respond, 'Through pain and suffering a lot.' It wasn't always these amazing, beautiful exits."Jeremy's insights and experiences provide invaluable lessons for aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs.Episode Summary:Jeremy shared his entrepreneurial journey, starting with his current company Payment Brokers. The company specializes in assisting merchants to negotiate rates, fees, and contracts with top credit card processing companies, resulting in lower overall costs and improved transaction efficiency, without necessitating hardware or software changes, minimum contracts or volumes, or cancellation fees, across all currencies and payment forms. He talks about navigating the challenges within the payment processing industry. Jeremy emphasizes the importance of transitioning from profit-focused ventures to purpose-driven businesses, highlighting the need for transparency and fair practices in payment processing. Jeremy's passion for assisting small businesses shines through as he discusses his future ventures, including a housing company focused on affordable housing solutions.Key Takeaways:Purpose-Driven Ventures: Transitioning from profit-centric to purpose-driven businesses can yield greater fulfillment and success in entrepreneurship.Transparency in Payment Processing: Jeremy stresses the necessity for transparency and fairness in the payment processing industry to support small businesses effectively.Self-awareness in Entrepreneurship: Recognizing one's strengths and weaknesses can lead to more effective partnerships and business growth.Alignment of Values: Aligning personal values with entrepreneurial endeavors fosters greater satisfaction and impact.Sound Bites:"Transitioning from profit-focused ventures to purpose-driven businesses can lead to greater fulfillment and success."

Join Michael Conniff in the latest episode of "The Accelerator" as he sits down with Kurt Long, BUNKR CEO and co-founder.  Kurt is a successful entrepreneur with over 25 years of starting, growing, and building financially successful information security and privacy businesses. Kurt is the Executive Director of the Long Family Force for Good Foundation, which focuses exclusively on supporting not-for-profits dedicated to improving the mental health of children and families. In this episode, he talks to us about his latest venture, BUNKR, a platform designed to build the most trusted network of people globally. With a focus on privacy and security, Bunker aims to provide users with a secure space for messaging, file storage, and password management.  Key InsightsSelection Process and User Base: Kurt discusses BUNKR's selection process, emphasizing that users invite those they trust, such as family, friends, and colleagues. The platform boasts users in 35 countries and has seen rapid global adoption since its launch in October.Business Model: BUNKR's business model revolves around a subscription service, with users starting at 99 cents and potentially upgrading to a premium version for enhanced features. Kurt highlights the platform's appeal to regulated industries like financial services and healthcare due to its compliance with record-keeping requirements.Addressing Security Concerns: Kurt addresses concerns about privacy and security, emphasizing BUNKR's commitment to trust and cooperation with law enforcement when necessary. He contrasts BUNKR with other messaging platforms that may attract criminal elements and underscores the platform's focus on legitimate, law-abiding users.Philanthropic Ventures: Kurt discusses his involvement in philanthropic ventures, including projects focused on measuring meaningfulness among youth and promoting civil discourse in education. He expresses excitement about initiatives aimed at fostering understanding and communication among diverse groups.Overall, the episode delves into the world of secure messaging, alongside Kurt's entrepreneurial endeavors and philanthropic ventures. 

SummaryIn this conversation, Michael Conniff interviews Sean Clifford and Pat Waters from Team Group Holdings. They discuss the impact of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) legislation on college athletes and the opportunities it presents for them to become entrepreneurs. They also talk about the growth of Limitless, a company focused on NIL business, and its collaboration with Strategic Sports Marketing and Sports Vault. The conversation covers topics such as locker room dynamics, the role of collectives in NIL, and the financial considerations for athletes. Overall, the conversation highlights the changing landscape of sports and the empowerment of athletes in the business world.TakeawaysNIL legislation has provided college athletes with the opportunity to monetize their name, image, and likeness and become entrepreneurs.The growth of Limitless, a company focused on NIL business, has provided athletes with a platform to build their brand and explore opportunities outside of their sport.The athlete as an entrepreneur is becoming more prevalent in both college and professional sports, allowing athletes to develop their brand and find their why beyond their sport.Collectives play a role in protecting and supporting athletes in the NIL landscape, providing opportunities for athletes to work with brands and agencies.Chapters00:00Introduction and Background01:29Transitioning from College Athlete to Entrepreneur03:09Impact of NIL on Locker Room Dynamics04:11Collaboration between Sean Clifford and Pat Waters07:04Infrastructure and Growth of Limitless08:59The Athlete as an Entrepreneur12:12Differentiating in a Crowded NIL Market14:40Preparing Athletes for Life Beyond Sports18:18The Role of Collectives in NIL21:21The Financial Considerations for Athletes23:47Deals and Marketing Strategies25:47The Quarterback Club27:08Athletes' Influence in the Sports Industry28:22Conclusion

In this episode, Michael Conniff talks with  Sean Branagan, the Director of the Digital Media Entrepreneurship Program at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. They discuss Sean's experience as an entrepreneur, the transition from traditional typesetting to digital media, the rise of social media and its impact on tech companies, and the role of AI in the media industry. Sean emphasizes the need for media companies to embrace technology and act as tech companies themselves. He also shares insights on teaching students to use AI tools responsibly and shape the future of AI.TakeawaysThe transition from traditional typesetting to digital media marked a significant shift in the industry.The rise of social media transformed tech companies into media companies, with advertising becoming a major source of revenue.Entrepreneurs should embrace technology and shape its future rather than resist it.Teaching students to use AI tools responsibly and critically evaluate their outputs is crucial in the digital media landscape.Chapters00:00Introduction and Podcast Overview01:05Discussion on Cy Newhouse and Journalism02:06Sean's Experience as an Entrepreneur03:25Typesetting Business and Transition to Digital04:54Transition to Internet Business06:32Early Search Engines and Google's Late Entry07:49Selling the Internet Company before the Dot-com Bubble09:09Buying Tech Companies and the Dot-com Bubble10:12The Rise of Social Media and Facebook12:13The Distinction Between Narrowcasting and Closed User Groups13:09The Impact of Social Media and the Dot-com Bubble14:14Inflicting Technology on Media15:41Tech Companies as Media Companies17:48The Impact of Advertising on Tech Companies18:36Sean's Role as a Consultant and Transition to Newhouse School20:47The Digital Media Entrepreneurship Program at Newhouse School22:12Digital Entrepreneurs in the Early Days25:56The Impact of OpenAI and ChatGPT on Newhouse School26:26Using AI Tools in Class and Teaching Students to Write28:37Embracing and Shaping the Future of AI29:12Closing Remarks and Podcast Outro

In the latest episode of The Accelerator with Michael Conniff,  Steve Charlap MD, MBA takes us on a journey into the innovative world of healthcare with SOAP Health. SOAP, which is an acronym for Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan,  introduces us to Jeannie, an animated character revolutionizing patient interviews using the power of AI.Dr. Charlap, the CEO and founder of SOAP Health, begins by sharing his unique educational background, blending medicine, business, and genetics. His motivation to create SOAP Health stems from a desire to bring creativity back to medicine and address the shortcomings he observed during his extensive career.Jeannie, the AI interviewer, emerges as the hero of this narrative, conducting comprehensive interviews with patients. But she's not just a chatbot—she's an engaging, always accessible, and sometimes funny character. Dr. Charlap boldly claims that Jeannie can significantly improve diagnostic accuracy, reduce liability exposure, cut down on no-shows, and save doctors valuable time.The conversation takes a poignant turn as Dr. Charlap shares a personal tragedy—the misdiagnosis and loss of his brother. This heartfelt experience drives his mission to make healthcare more precise, preventing similar incidents. The business model behind SOAP Health is revealed as a Software as a Service (SaaS) subscription, with Dr. Charlap guaranteeing a tenfold return on investment for physicians who use the tool as directed.As the discussion unfolds, the potential of AI in healthcare is explored, addressing questions of liability and the evolving role of AI in replacing certain aspects of traditional medical care. Dr. Charlap also shares SOAP Health's global initiatives, partnerships, and expansion plans, underscoring the platform's commitment to trustworthiness and precision.This episode is a riveting exploration of the intersection between technology, medicine, and entrepreneurship. Tune in to The Accelerator for an engaging conversation that paints a vivid picture of the future of healthcare. And as Michael Conniff aptly reminds us, "Keep listening, because we'll be back with another one before you know it."

Welcome back to The Accelerator, the podcast where we unravel the secrets of startups, entrepreneurship, and groundbreaking innovations. In today's episode, we're joined by a true visionary, Allison Kent-Smith, the CEO and co-founder of Giide.Imagine a world where your podcast isn't just something you listen to but an immersive experience that captivates both your ears and eyes. That's exactly what Giide brings to the table—interactive audio for the business world.In this episode, Allison takes us on a journey through the evolution of Giide, a platform that seamlessly combines the best aspects of podcasts and social media feeds. It's not just a tool; it's a game-changer.Discover how Giide is reshaping the landscape of content creation. Picture turning your regular podcast into a dynamic, visual journey. Allison breaks down the process, from uploading your audio to transforming it into a transcript and then enriching it with multimedia—images, videos, gifs, and more.But Giide isn't just for podcasters. Major media companies like Workday and Axios are leveraging Giide for employee onboarding, creating engaging audio guides that redefine the traditional onboarding experience.Michael and Allison also delve into real-world examples, showcasing how Giide is being embraced by big players across various industries. From marketing and communications to media podcasting and training/onboarding, Giide is proving to be a versatile tool for businesses of all sizes.Allison's journey from the world of media, marketing, and advertising to the creation of Giide is nothing short of inspiring. Her insights into the limitations of traditional content creation methods and the need for a fresh approach led to the birth of Giide—a platform that aligns with modern content consumption habits.So, whether you're a content creator, a startup enthusiast, or a company looking to reinvent how you communicate, this episode is a must-listen. Giide is not just a tool; it's a revolution in content creation.Tune in now and explore the future of business content with Allison Kent-Smith and Giide.

In this episode of The Accelerator with Michael Conniff, host Michael engages in a dynamic conversation with Scott Jablonski, the founder and CEO of 77 Analytics LLC, who also has a passion for sports ventures. Scott brings his extensive experience and wisdom to the table as he delves into the world of startups and the challenges they face.In this enlightening discussion, Scott reveals the two facets of his work at 77 Analytics – consulting and advising. He provides strategic guidance to established brands and takes on a mentorship role for budding companies in their early stages, emphasizing the importance of helping young founders navigate the complex journey of building and growing their businesses.Scott and Michael discuss common issues that startups often encounter, including the delicate balance between optimism and pragmatism. They touch on the challenge of founders who take on too many roles and hats and the critical moment when they need to delegate responsibilities. Scott also shares stories of founders who have faced "dark clouds on the horizon" and how they can tackle these obstacles.The conversation delves into the value of accelerators and incubators in providing startups with resources, mentorship, and access to a supportive community. Scott highlights how these programs can be a game-changer for founders looking to overcome financial constraints by offering equity and valuable industry connections.Throughout the episode, Michael and Scott underscore the importance of founders being "Chief Solutions Officers" who constantly find creative ways to solve problems and "Chief Narrative Officers" who craft compelling stories to rally support for their visions.As Scott reflects on his involvement with accelerators like Techstars and Skydeck, the audience gains insight into the transformative power of mentorship and the growth of startups over time. The episode captures the passionate and inspiring journey of founders and the invaluable role played by advisors like Scott.Scott Jablonski's journey through the sports industry is nothing short of fascinating. From his roles at the NBA, NHL, and StubHub to his deep dive into sports analytics, he's seen the industry from angles most fans never get to explore. In this part of the podcast conversation, he shares valuable insights about his sports experiences.This conversation is like a cool bridge between the sports universe and startups. The big takeaway? Be flexible, be quick on your feet, and always be ready to ride the waves of change. It's like a masterclass in staying ahead of the game, and Scott Jablonski has got some killer insights on how sports smarts can translate to business success.

Greetings, listeners! Welcome back to The Accelerator with Michael Conniff. If you've been following us, you know we love to explore the realms of accelerators, startups, incubators, and all things innovation. Today, we've got a real treat in store. Joining us is none other than Dr. Bernardo Perez Villa, the Senior Innovations Engagement Partner at Cleveland Clinic.In this fascinating podcast, Michael and Bernardo take you on a journey through a groundbreaking study recently published in Nature Medicine Magazine. This isn't just any research; it's the result of over a decade's worth of dedication and hard work by the Cleveland Clinic team. The study delves into the remarkable potential of deep brain stimulation (DBS) to help stroke patients regain control of their movements.But this isn't just about science – it's about time. Bernardo passionately highlights the vital role time plays in the innovation process. From the inception of abstract ideas to crafting tangible inventions and ultimately ushering in full-blown innovations, time is the unsung hero.Intriguingly, Bernardo gives us an exclusive look into his role as an engagement partner at the Cleveland Clinic. It's all about identifying unmet clinical needs and nurturing groundbreaking solutions that can make a difference and hit the market.And speaking of differences, the discussion takes an interesting turn into the complex world of research, invention, and innovation. Bernardo draws captivating parallels with figures like Tesla and Edison, unraveling the nuances that set these concepts apart.But here's the heart of it all: innovation. It's all about scalability and enhancing patient outcomes while ensuring a solid return on investment. Deep brain stimulation emerges as a ray of hope, especially for stroke patients. It's a revolutionary technique that awakens dormant parts of the brain, significantly improving their quality of life.Now, what about taking these incredible innovations from the research lab and propelling them into the bustling marketplace? It's a meticulous process involving partnerships, licensing agreements, and the creation of startups. Bernardo gives us two prime examples: Mitria, a thriving startup born within the nurturing embrace of the Cleveland Clinic, and Custom Orthopedics, which found its wings as a licensed third-party entity.So, the big question is, how do they decide whether to keep innovations in-house or set them free to flourish elsewhere? It's a collective journey – a team discussion guided by numerous factors, even paving the way for dynamic platform solutions.But hold on, there's more. We'll take you back in time to the early days of Bernardo, when he was working in a cozy Colorado diner. Little did he know that this humble start would lead him to his exciting role at Cleveland Clinic. It's a story that truly underscores the importance of networking and seizing opportunities to reach new heights.Yet, our podcast isn't merely a stroll down memory lane. It's a peek into the future of healthcare innovation. In a world teeming with brilliant minds, what's on the horizon for the healthcare industry in the next five to ten years? Bernardo's insights offer a tantalizing glimpse into what's to come.We're ever so grateful for your support, and we're thrilled to bring you this engaging discussion on the potential future of healthcare innovation. Thanks for being part of The Accelerator community!

🚀 Dive into the future of marketing on this electrifying episode of The Accelerator with Michael Conniff! Join us as we venture into the world of AI-enhanced marketing with A.J Elliott, the brilliant Co-founder and COO of Dicer.ai, a trailblazing company pioneering AI's potential to skyrocket your marketing game.In this  episode, you'll uncover a treasure trove of insights:🔮 Discover the wizardry behind Dicer.ai's AI-enhanced marketing services, equipping marketers with superhuman insights and recommendations to breathe new life into their ad campaigns.🤖 Uncover the secrets of how Dicer.ai assembles a legion of AI agents, each with a unique skill, to tackle the daily grind of media buying – from scrutinizing images and videos to optimizing ad copy, budgets, and targeting.📊 Bid farewell to the era of subjective marketing decisions! Dicer.ai empowers you with data-driven suggestions based on real ad performance, eliminating guesswork and infusing precision into your strategy.🌟 Witness the magic of Dicer.ai crafting its own ads through AI and fine-tuning them using its specialized platform.💰 Hold onto your seats as we reveal Dicer.ai's meteoric rise to $15,000 in monthly revenue within a mere two months, expanding its dominion to the UK and Canadian markets.🤝 Explore Dicer.ai's symbiotic relationship with marketing agencies, turbocharging their productivity and client value, all while staying incognito or flaunting their Dicer.ai partnership.🎭 Delve into how Dicer.ai collaborates with brands, helping them strike an emotional chord with their audience and optimizing ads for those coveted conversions.💡 Uncover Dicer.ai's transparent pricing structure, tailored to your ad spend, and learn why it's a stellar investment that consistently delivers a jaw-dropping ROI.🌐 Realize that in the vast landscape of marketing technology, Dicer.ai stands alone, offering a holistic solution that fuses creativity and campaign management.Join us in this electrifying exploration where AI transforms marketing into a mesmerizing realm of data-driven success. Don't miss this opportunity to sharpen your marketing skills with insights that will reshape your strategy and drive unparalleled conversions. Tune in now! 🔥🎙️

Ever wondered about the captivating world of esports and why it's setting the global stage ablaze with excitement? Esports, short for electronic sports, isn't just about gamers battling it out; it's a dynamic fusion of entertainment, culture, and commerce, igniting the imaginations of millions worldwide, particularly among the younger generation.Picture this: Professional video game competitions and teams, watched by throngs of devoted fans, taking center stage in a new-age arena that's changing how we define entertainment. Now, if you're as curious as we are about this phenomenon, you won't want to miss this episode of The Accelerator with Michael Conniff where we delve into the world of esports alongside Marco Mereu, the visionary CEO of M80, a pioneering esports company.In this episode, your curiosity will be stoked as you explore:The Esports Universe: Discover why esports has become a global sensation, capturing the hearts of millions, especially among the younger crowd.Market Size and Impact: Get the lowdown on the colossal esports market and how it stacks up against traditional sports, from viewership to revenue and sponsorship.Crossover Athletes: Uncover how athletes from various sports are diving into esports, not just as players but as investors and advocates.The Entrepreneur's Journey: Follow Marco's remarkable transition from the world of law to becoming a serial entrepreneur in the gaming industry, marked by the successful founding and selling of several companies.Inside M80: Peek behind the curtain of M80 as an esports powerhouse. Learn how they identify, train, and support their players as contracted athletes.The Money Game: Delve into the intricate world of esports contracts, with some worth staggering sums, akin to transfers in European football.Diverse Revenue Streams: Unearth the secret to M80's revenue generation, spanning esports, sponsorships, e-commerce, digital goods, game publishing, and consumer packaged goods.Building Popularity: Learn how M80 evaluates player marketability and skills, leveraging their stardom to sell products beyond the gaming realm.The Gambling Angle: Explore the fascinating but regulated world of esports betting, and how it fits into this burgeoning landscape.Quest for Growth: Understand M80's relentless pursuit of "escape velocity" as they push boundaries and chart a course for future success.Creating Games: Get a glimpse into M80's strategy of publishing their own games, capitalizing on influencer publishing and the creator economy.Diverse Portfolio: Discover what sets M80 apart, as they proudly showcase a diverse portfolio of teams, games, and revenue streams.This episode is full of fascinating insights and stories from Marco Mereu, who shares his entrepreneurial journey and his vision for the future of esports.  Tune in to listen to the full episode.

In this episode of The Accelerator with Michael Conniff, our guest is Frederick Cary.  He is a senior executive, strategic consultant, attorney, and investment banker with over 25 years of experience building global companies. He is the CEO of IdeaPros, a company that helps entrepreneurs turn their ideas into profitable ventures across various sectors.Fred talks to Michael Conniff about his unique approach to helping entrepreneurs launch their ventures. Idea Pros charges $100,000 and takes 30% equity in exchange for providing comprehensive support and guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs who don't fit the typical startup mold. Idea Pros works with over 400 companies in 36 different verticals and plans to scale to 4,000 companies. Fred shares how he finds the hole in the market and fills it with innovative products or services. He also gives an example of Grunt, an app that solves a problem for the construction industry by delivering supplies from major providers to job sites. Fred emphasizes that Idea Pros is more than an advisor; it's a co-founder who does all the heavy lifting and trains entrepreneurs to be successful.Here are key points from the conversation:The Transformation of Failure into Success: Fred shares a story about his past failure with a company called Boxlot. They were competing with eBay in the auction industry but couldn't catch up. However, they later pivoted by developing technology to automate bidding processes, leading to a successful acquisition of their company for $125 million.The Stress of Scaling IdeaPros: Fred discusses the stress associated with scaling Idea Pros from 400 to 4,000 companies. He emphasizes the need to adapt and restructure their approach to accommodate the overwhelming demand for their services.The Importance of Comprehensive Market Research: Fred underscores the significance of thorough market research for startups. He highlights that many entrepreneurs fail because they don't research market demand, competition, and potential pitfalls. Idea Pros places a strong emphasis on market research as a foundational step.Early Product Development and Pivoting: Entrepreneurs should have a clear product idea early in the process. Fred acknowledges that Idea Pros focuses on product development alongside market research. Pivoting is common and can occur based on data and market feedback.Investor Attraction: IdeaPros helps startups attract investors. Fred stresses that successful pitches focus on demonstrating a clear return on investment for potential investors. Entrepreneurs should articulate how they plan to provide financial gains and why they are the right team to execute the vision.Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship: Fred discusses the importance of aligning personal purpose with business. He shares an example of a businesswoman who initially believed her business had nothing to do with her purpose. However, by examining her actions and values in the business context, she realized her purpose was to improve the lives of employees through acquisitions and growth.Upcoming Event: Fred mentions "The Business Show" on September 20th and 21st, where he will speak to 15,000 entrepreneurs. He provides a sneak preview of his topics, including aligning purpose with business, effective pitching strategies, and the steps unicorns take to achieve billion-dollar valuations.

We are thrilled to have Brian Will in this episode of The Accelerator with Michael Conniff's podcast. Brian Will is a serial entrepreneur, a two-time Wall Street Journal best-selling author, and an industry-leading business and sales management consultant.The conversation kicks off with Michael asking  Brian about his book The Dropout Multi-Millionaire.Brian shares his incredible story of overcoming a troubled childhood, a rebellious attitude, and a learning disability to become a successful business owner and speaker. The pivotal moment in Brian's journey came when he realized the value of being coachable. He emphasizes that successful entrepreneurs don't have all the answers but excel at asking the right questions. Listening and learning from others, whether it's a mentor or a coach, can significantly accelerate one's path to success.Brian shares his experience of spending time on Necker Island with Sir Richard Branson. The experience left a profound impact on Brian. It reinforced the idea that success should be used as a platform to make a positive impact on others and the world.The podcast also delves into Brian's own accelerator program and discusses what it takes to get into his program.A standout moment is when Brian discusses the characteristics of companies that go from well-funded startups to achieving revenue of up to ten million dollars. He highlights four key points:Strategic Business Direction: Ensuring the business idea is viable and scalable.Building High-Performance Sales Teams: Recognizing the critical role of sales in any business and how to generate a healthy ROI on marketing efforts.Measured Profitable Growth: Emphasizing the importance of building a company from profits rather than relying solely on external capital.Understanding Your Numbers: Highlighting a common weakness among entrepreneurs—insufficient understanding of their financial metrics.Brian also sheds light on a pivotal truth: Sales are the lifeblood of any business. For those hesitant about sales, Brian advises seeking experts or coaches to boost your team's selling prowess. He underscores that a robust sales team isn't just responsible for themselves; they're the driving force behind the entire company's revenue. So, whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned CEO, Brian's message is clear: Embrace sales, and you're on the path to business growth and success.Tune in to this episode of The Accelerator and get ready to be inspired by Brian Will's journey from dropout to multi-millionaire.

In this episode, we have a special guest who is a master of go-to-market strategies and a passionate advocate of data-driven technologies. He is Raviv Kerem, a seasoned specialist in strategy operations, product, and go-to-market.Raviv Kerem has an impressive background that spans across different industries and continents. He is originally from Israel, where he witnessed the rise of one of the most vibrant and successful tech ecosystems in the world. He moved to New York City a few years ago and fell in love with the city and its dynamic startup scene. He currently lives in Astoria, a charming neighborhood that he describes as a mini-United Nations.In this episode, Raviv shares his insights on the differences and similarities between the startup landscapes of New York and Israel. He explains why Israel is such a powerhouse of innovation, especially in cybersecurity and intelligence. He attributes this to the culture of ambition, creativity, and collaboration that pervades Israeli society, as well as the support from the government and the military elite units. He also compares the advantages and challenges of being an entrepreneur in New York versus Israel.Next, Raviv reveals his secrets on how to craft effective go-to-market (GTM) strategies. He defines GTM as the art and science of presenting a product to customers in a way that solves their problems delivers value, and ensures scalability. He discusses the common pitfalls that companies face when they try to achieve product-market fit. He emphasizes the importance of listening to customers and understanding their pain points, rather than trying to educate them on your solution. He gives an example of how he helped a cybersecurity company grow its revenue by changing its approach and implementing some best practices.This episode is packed with valuable information and tips on how to succeed in the competitive and fast-changing world of startups. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, an established founder, or a curious listener, you will find something useful and inspiring in this episode. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the industry. Listen to The Accelerator with Michael Conniff and Raviv Kerem today!

In this episode of The Accelerator with Michael Conniff, we speak with Pat Riley, the CEO of Morrow and Managing Partner at Morrow Ventures.The conversation starts off with Pat explaining the mission of Morrow. The mission of Morrow is to give startups the power to create and grow their business and to make an impact wherever they call home. Pat believes that accelerators are the best way to do this, as they provide startups with the necessary support, data, tools, and community. He also explains the difference between an accelerator and an incubator, and why he prefers the former. An accelerator is a type of investment vehicle that usually selects five to 10 fully formed companies and provides them with office space, mentorship, and funding for three to six months. The program typically ends with a demo day, where the startups pitch their ideas to potential investors. An incubator, on the other hand, is a service that offers similar support to fully formed companies, but without investing in them. Instead, the startups pay a fee to the incubator for using its facilities and resources. The main difference between an accelerator and an incubator is the financial arrangement and the duration of the program. Startups in an incubator can stay as long as they need unless they grow too big or fail.In this episode, you will also hear about work-life balance and whether this is possible for entrepreneurs. Michael and discuss whether work-life balance is taught or modeled. Pat believes that success for entrepreneurs is supposed to extend to the family level and not just about making money.  Pat talks about the structures in place at Morrow Ventures that promote work-life balance.This is a podcast that will inspire you to pursue your dreams and make a difference in the world. Tune in to The Accelerator with Michael Conniff and Pat Riley today!

Joining us from Mexico, our guests today delve into the podcasting arena. Jorge Gonzalez, the founder of Nodalab, introduces their collaborative platform for podcast creation and growth. Sofia Benedicto, Nodalab's co-founder, podcast producer, digital content developer, and creative writer, is Accompanying him.Remarkably, there are over 200 million content creators worldwide, with the industry valued at $100 billion. Podcasting, a thriving medium, boasts 4 million podcasts and a market worth $13 billion. Astonishingly, only 1% of content is monetized, leaving creators grappling for income and sponsors. The journey to secure a first sponsorship spans around six and a half months, dampening creators' spirits.Sofia and Jorge birthed Nodalab to tackle this challenge. Nodalab equips podcasters with tools for pre-production, concept creation, post-production, and monetization. Focused on Mexico and Latin America, where podcasting is burgeoning, Nodalab connects podcasters with interested brands, bridging a market gap. Elevate content, engage with brands, and monetize seamlessly with Nodalab – the ultimate podcasting solution.

In today's enlightening conversation, we unveil the inspiring journey of Iambic—a next-generation shoe brand that delivers precision-fit shoes at scale through AI, virtual scanning, and streamlined manufacturing.  Speaking with us today is Maeve Wang who is the co-founder and CEO of Iambic and Raza Hassan, co-founder and CTO. At the heart of Iambic lies a deeply personal struggle endured by Maeve herself. Imagine facing the frustrating dilemma of never finding shoes that fit perfectly. Maeve's breaking point came after an astonishing 300 shoe returns and exchanges within a mere three years—both online and in physical stores. Her quest led her on a tireless journey, spanning from upstate Connecticut to the depths of Jersey, testing every foot scanner in existence, trying countless brands until the undeniable truth struck her: something was amiss in the shoe-making system.Maeve didn't stop there. She embarked on a quest to unravel the truth, speaking with countless consumers, friends, and family, only to uncover a staggering reality—27% of people faced the same footwear woes. A chance encounter with a biomedical engineering professor, a friend with an expert perspective introduced her to Raza and that’s how they connected and began the journey to starting Iambic. Raza had just finished his doctorate degree in biomedical engineering with a focus on computational biomechanics and musculoskeletal joint research. The highlight is when Raza explains in detail the process of creating a shoe. You will also learn how Iambic creates shoes that fit perfectly for each customer using its proprietary technology platform. Raza explains how they use AI and streamlined manufacturing to automate and modernize the shoe-making process, from virtual scanning to production. He demonstrates how they transform a foot shape into a shoe mold, and then into a shoe product, using their advanced computational biomechanics models and machine learning algorithms. He also shows an example of a white sneaker with red highlights that is custom-made for a customer's foot. You will be amazed by the speed, accuracy, and artistry of their technology and their product.You will also hear how Iambic's product has been very well received by the market, especially by the early adopters and tastemakers who appreciate the premium nature and value proposition of their shoes. Maeve shares how they sold out of their first limited drop without any paid ads, just because of the high demand and the strong connection with the public. She expresses her excitement and gratitude for the overwhelming response and the positive feedback that they have received. You will be impressed by the traction and momentum that they have achieved with their product and their brand.

Welcome back to The Accelerator Podcast hosted by Michael Conniff! In today's episode, we are excited to introduce three remarkable guests: Ryan Coles, Ph.D. He is a Professor at UConn (University Of Connecticut) School of Business along with Peter Goggins from Pisces Atlantic and Massyl Malem from PatentPlus AI.Our conversation begins with Professor Coles, who shares his inspiring journey into entrepreneurship and his passion for startup culture. He narrates a captivating story of his involvement in a volunteerism startup in the Middle East during the Arab Spring in 2011. This experience exposed him to the challenges of starting a business internationally and understanding the complexities of different cultures and power structures.After completing his doctoral studies at Cornell, Professor Coles joined the University of Connecticut (UConn) and established the Foundry within Daigle Labs. The Foundry serves as an experimental space for nurturing businesses built around scientific and technological breakthroughs. Professor Coles emphasizes the significance of leveraging academic research to foster successful startups.Next, we explore Massyl Malem's journey, the co-founder, and CEO of PatentPlus AI. Massyl's fascination with intellectual property began during a co-op program while pursuing his studies in chemical engineering at UConn. This led him to create PatentPlus AI, an innovative AI-powered platform for patent searching and analysis. Massyl discusses the challenges they encountered while accessing global patent databases and how the Foundry's "pivot grant" played a pivotal role in overcoming these obstacles.Currently, in the beta testing phase, Massyl's company aims to revolutionize the patent search process, making it quicker, more cost-effective, and more accurate compared to traditional methods. They collaborate with pilot programs and potential clients to fine-tune their AI-powered patent search tool.Next, we hear from Peter Goggins, the visionary founder and CEO of Pisces Atlantic. His company produces sustainable, high-tech fish feeds that are fish meal-free, using alternative protein sources like yeast byproducts, fungal meals, and insect meals. This eco-friendly feed not only benefits the environment but also improves the health of the fish.Peter shares Pisces Atlantic's challenges during their scaling-up journey and how the Foundry's support was instrumental in identifying niche markets abroad to gain traction. With approximately 10 million USD in sales secured, Pisces Atlantic is now focused on expansion and fulfillment.Daigle Labs is an essential hub for nurturing startups, employing a unique approach similar to a lab rather than a traditional accelerator. Professor Coles and his team provide ongoing support to startups, even after they achieve commercial success. The Foundry's dedication to fostering innovation underscores its commitment to propelling groundbreaking entrepreneurship forward. Tune in to this informative episode as we explore the dynamic ventures of PatentPlus AI and Pisces Atlantic while gaining valuable insights into Daigle Lab’s pivotal role in their success.

Are you passionate about real estate investing but feel like the traditional options are limiting your chances? Well, let's introduce you to Daniel Rajnoch, the visionary founder of InvestBay, a platform that's changing the game for aspiring real estate investors.InvestBay's mission is to make real estate investment accessible to everyone, regardless of the financial challenges they may face. They achieve this through cutting-edge blockchain innovation, a supportive investor community, and valuable educational resources that provide a fresh perspective on real estate investing.Join Michael Conniff as he sits down with Daniel Rajnoch to explore how InvestBay is revolutionizing the world of real estate investments and removing barriers for potential investors.Have you ever been frustrated by the obstacles preventing you from entering the real estate investment market?In this engaging episode, Daniel shares the core principles behind InvestBay's success and their unwavering commitment to making real estate investments more accessible. He'll walk you through the three pillars of the platform:Instant Accessibility: Discover how InvestBay's innovative payment card system enables investors to participate in real estate opportunities while ensuring they have instant access to funds whenever they need them. This eliminates the traditional hurdles that can hold back potential investors.Tokenization Platform: Find out how InvestBay's tokenization platform opens up a wide range of real estate assets for investment, offering diverse options to individuals looking to invest in this lucrative market.Lending Platform: Learn about the lending platform provided by InvestBay, which gives investors the chance to explore new investment possibilities and diversify their portfolio, regardless of their initial capital.Daniel Rajnoch's journey is truly inspiring and filled with innovation. Before InvestBay, he spent 15 years in the restaurant business, managing the most popular bar and nightclub in Prague. However, his desire to explore new horizons and embrace technology led him to create InvestBay, where he utilized invaluable skills gained from his previous venture.If you're eager to overcome the challenges and embrace a future where real estate investment is more accessible, this episode is a must-listen. Join Michael Conniff and Daniel Rajnoch as they discuss the future of real estate investments and how InvestBay is breaking barriers to create opportunities for all. Get ready for an enlightening conversation that might just change the way you think about investing in real estate! 

Are you ready for a game-changing episode of The Accelerator? This week, we dive into the fascinating world of sports and innovation with a groundbreaking company - The Union Community Inc! We had the honor of sitting down with Saskia Webber and Michael Magid, the visionary co-founders of The Union Community Inc! The Union Community Inc is a game-changing platform designed to revolutionize the way youth athletes engage with professional players and coaches. Their mission is to create a safe haven away from the toxicity of social media, offering a quality space where young talents can thrive, learn, and excel! Available on both the App Store and Google Play store, and accessible through their user-friendly website (https://www.theunionsports.com), this innovative platform empowers young athletes to network, seek guidance, and receive personalized coaching from the best in the business.Saskia Webber is a soccer legend known for her influential role in the U.S. Women's National Team's triumphant 1999 World Cup victory. Throughout her esteemed career, she proudly represented her country in the 1995 World Cup and the 1996 Gold Medal Olympic team. As a founding member of the Women's United Soccer Association, Saskia's impact on women's soccer went beyond the field. Her professional journey took her across continents, from playing for the Philadelphia Charge and the New York Power to earning recognition as the top goalkeeper in Japan's Oki FC league. Honored with multiple awards, including All-American recognition and the prestigious Missouri Athletic Club Goalkeeper of the Year Award, Saskia's dedication to the sport remained unwavering. Even after retiring from playing, she continues to make a significant mark as a founding investor of Angel City FC and the Broadcasting host of the NWSL. Her popular podcast, "Inside The 18," serves as a valuable source of insights and inspiration for goalkeepers worldwide.Michael Magid has a unique and fascinating journey that blends comedy and soccer. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, and raised in a diverse cultural environment, Michael's comedic style draws from a mix of ridiculously self-deprecating stories and hilarious biographical accounts. Embracing his mixed cultural background, Michael's humor resonates with audiences worldwide. Beyond comedy, Michael's passion for soccer has played a significant role in his life. As a dedicated coach for 17 years, he has nurtured and honed the skills of aspiring athletes. Moreover, his role as the Producer of the immensely popular Pro GK (Goalkeeping) Academy and its podcast "Inside The 18" showcases his commitment to the sport's growth and development.Together, Saskia Webber and Michael Magid have brought their expertise, passion, and innovation to create The Union Community Inc. We uncover the inspiring thought process that sparked the creation of The Union Community Inc. Hear from the passionate founders about their journey, challenges, and the impact they are making in the sports world. Discover how this exceptional community is shaping the future of sports mentorship and providing a sanctuary for aspiring athletes to thrive.One of the key highlights is when they shed light on the significant size of niche communities, exemplified by the projected 2.7 billion revenue from worldwide goalkeeping in 2023. Together, they emphasize the transformative impact of building a robust network, envisioning a future where millions of passionate athletes can access top-notch facilities, camps, clinics, and exceptional coaching. This eye-opening discussion reveals The Union Community Inc's groundbreaking approach to sports mentorship, solidifying their role as key players in shaping the future of niche sports communities.