Liberty Ventures Podcast with Alexander McCobin

🎙 He Built a Coffee Empire With His 6-Year-Old Daughter – T Shane Johnson | Liberty Ventures PodcastWhat happens when your 6-year-old wants to start a coffee business? If you’re T Shane Johnson—you say yes.In this episode, we sit down with T Shane Johnson, Marine Corps veteran and founder of Big Guns Coffee, the first indoor hydroponic coffee farm in the United States. What started as a dream between a father and daughter turned into a fully operational coffee business—now available in over 300 Walmart stores.T Shane shares the incredible journey of co-founding a company with his daughter, how they cracked the code on growing coffee indoors, and their bold plan to empower veterans and rural communities through farming innovation. Today, at just 10 years old, his daughter leads the pitches, including the one that landed their Walmart deal.This is an unforgettable story about grit, purpose, and building something that matters.⸻🧠 What You’ll Learn:•⁠  ⁠Why hydroponic coffee could disrupt the industry•⁠  ⁠How a 6-year-old’s idea led to a Walmart deal•⁠  ⁠The challenges and rewards of veteran entrepreneurship•⁠  ⁠How to build a legacy business with family at the center•⁠  ⁠The vision to empower rural America and local farmers•⁠  ⁠Why purpose-driven companies win in the long run⸻🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs advancing a free and prosperous future.🔗 CONNECT WITH T SHANE JOHNSON📸 TikTok: @biggunscoffee💻 Website: https://biggunscoffee.com👕 Merch: Coming Soon🔗 CONNECT WITH LIBERTY VENTURES👥 LinkedIn: /libertyventures❌ X: @liberty_vc📸 Instagram: @libertyventuresvc⸻🎙 ABOUT THE PODCASTThe Liberty Ventures Podcast explores entrepreneurship, investing, and liberty to empower you to create meaningful impact. Join Alexander McCobin as he interviews accomplished guests to uncover their strategies to overcome challenges, achieve growth, and leave a lasting legacy. Unlock the knowledge and motivation to make a difference, create freedom, and live your best life.🔗 CONNECT WITH ALEXANDER 👥 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccobin/🐦 X - https://x.com/amccobin📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccobin/ 🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs aligned on advancing a free and prosperous future. Join our Angel Investor Network or submit your startup here: https://www.libertyventures.xyz/investing

🎙 David Gardner Invested in Amazon Early—Now He Helps Others Think Like Rule BreakersWhat does it take to see opportunity before the rest of the world does?In this episode, we sit down with legendary investor David Gardner, co-founder of The Motley Fool and one of the earliest believers in Amazon, Tesla, and Netflix. With a cost basis of just 16 cents on Amazon, David shares the lessons he’s learned from decades of long-term investing—and how he applies them to help others think like rule breakers.We explore how David’s investing philosophy—rooted in optimism, conviction, and resilience—goes beyond stock picks. It’s about identifying outliers, embracing long-term thinking, and creating a life guided by freedom and purpose.You’ll also hear his personal list of America’s core values—and why liberty and enterprise sit at the top.This is a must-watch episode for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone building toward a freer, more prosperous future.⸻🧠 What You’ll Learn:•Why David held Amazon through the noise—and what it taught him•The mindset shift from trading to investing•How to spot “rule breakers” before they go mainstream•What most people get wrong about losses and risk•The five core values he believes America must reclaim•Why optimism is an underrated investment strategy⸻🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs advancing a free and prosperous future.🔗 CONNECT WITH DAVID GARDNER💻 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgardner4/🎧 Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/lv/podcast/rule-breaker-investing/id1017325738📘 Book: Rule Breaker Investing (Coming Soon)🔗 CONNECT WITH LIBERTY VENTURES👥 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/libertyventures❌ X: @liberty_vc📸 Instagram: @libertyventuresvc⸻🎙 ABOUT THE PODCASTThe Liberty Ventures Podcast explores entrepreneurship, investing, and liberty to empower you to create meaningful impact. Join Alexander McCobin as he interviews accomplished guests to uncover their strategies to overcome challenges, achieve growth, and leave a lasting legacy. Unlock the knowledge and motivation to make a difference, create freedom, and live your best life.🔗 CONNECT WITH ALEXANDER 👥 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccobin/🐦 X - https://x.com/amccobin📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccobin/ 🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs aligned on advancing a free and prosperous future. Join our Angel Investor Network or submit your startup here: https://www.libertyventures.xyz/investing

🎙 FROM BROKER TO BUILDER: A NEW VISION OF WEALTH WITH BRANDON HATTONIn this episode, we sit down with Brandon Hatton—wealth manager, author of Conscious Wealth, and founder of an independent family office built on values of freedom, integrity, and intentionality.Brandon shares how he broke free from the constraints of traditional brokerage firms to build a practice centered around deep, transformative conversations with families about money, legacy, and purpose. He discusses the moment he went independent—on the 4th of July—and how symbolic decisions like that reflect his commitment to living and working with meaning.From redefining what it means to be wealthy, to helping families navigate tough intergenerational conversations, Brandon shows us how financial freedom starts with emotional intelligence and radical honesty.This episode is a must-watch for entrepreneurs, wealth stewards, and anyone rethinking how money can be used as a tool for connection, not control.🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs advancing a free and prosperous future.🔗 CONNECT WITH BRANDON HATTON💻 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonthatton/📘 Book: https://www.amazon.com/Conscious-Wealth-Investing-Financial-Awakening/dp/1950466302📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonthatton?igsh=MTNuMDQwMDNhYnRtZg==🌐 Website: https://www.consciouswealth.com/🔗 CONNECT WITH LIBERTY VENTURES👥 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/libertyventures❌ X: @liberty_vc📸 Instagram: @libertyventuresvc🌐 Website: 🎙 ABOUT THE PODCASTThe Liberty Ventures Podcast explores entrepreneurship, investing, and liberty to empower you to create meaningful impact. Join Alexander McCobin as he interviews accomplished guests to uncover their strategies to overcome challenges, achieve growth, and leave a lasting legacy. Unlock the knowledge and motivation to make a difference, create freedom, and live your best life.🔗 CONNECT WITH ALEXANDER 👥 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccobin/🐦 X - https://x.com/amccobin📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccobin/ 🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs aligned on advancing a free and prosperous future. Join our Angel Investor Network or submit your startup here: https://www.libertyventures.xyz/investing

🎙 DISRUPTING INDUSTRIES & INVESTING IN THE FUTURE WITH TIM DRAPERIn this episode, we sit down with Tim Draper, legendary venture capitalist and early investor in groundbreaking companies like Tesla, SpaceX, and Bitcoin. Tim shares his insights on what it takes to be a visionary entrepreneurand the key qualities he looks for in the founders he backs.From embracing risk and innovation to challenging the status quo, Tim emphasizes the mindset required to build disruptive companies and drive meaningful change. His key message: think big, stay fearless, and always bet on freedom and innovation.This episode is a must-watch for entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone looking to understand how bold ideas can reshape industries and create lasting impact.🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs advancing a free and prosperous future.🔗 CONNECT WITH TIM DRAPER💻 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothydraper/🔗 CONNECT WITH LIBERTY VENTURES👥 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/libertyventures/🐦 Twitter: @liberty_vc📸 Instagram: @libertyventuresvc🎙 ABOUT THE PODCASTThe Liberty Ventures Podcast explores entrepreneurship, investing, and liberty to empower you to create meaningful impact. Join Alexander McCobin as he interviews accomplished guests to uncover their strategies to overcome challenges, achieve growth, and leave a lasting legacy. Unlock the knowledge and motivation to make a difference, create freedom, and live your best life.🔗 CONNECT WITH ALEXANDER 👥 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccobin/🐦 X - https://x.com/amccobin📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccobin/ 🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs aligned on advancing a free and prosperous future. Join our Angel Investor Network or submit your startup here: https://www.libertyventures.xyz/investing

In this episode of the Liberty Ventures podcast, we sit down with Dean Zarras, an application developer and former Goldman Sachs Managing Director, to discuss his entrepreneurial journey, lessons learned from his past startup ventures, and his current journey with ClearFactor.Dean shares invaluable insights on what it takes to succeed as a founder, from the challenges of acquiring funding to the decision-making process behind a startup acquisition. He discusses the importance of staying focused on customer needs, building a product that truly addresses pain points, and understanding when it’s time to pivot or exit.Key Takeaways:• The realities of raising capital and the "too hard bucket" challenge for startups• Why staying customer-centric from day one is crucial for startup success• Lessons learned from ClearFactor’s acquisition by Goldman Sachs and what’s next for the company• How product clarity and focus led to ClearFactor's viral success within Goldman Sachs• Dean’s current entrepreneurial journey and his new approach for scaling ClearFactor once againDean also opens up about the importance of perseverance, hard work, and learning from past failures, all while emphasizing the need for clarity and focus when building a business.Whether you’re a startup founder or someone interested in the world of tech innovation, this episode is packed with valuable lessons. Tune in to hear Dean’s story and the insights that can help shape your own entrepreneurial journey.🔗 CONNECT WITH DEAN 👥 Linkedin -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanzarras/🌐 Website - https://www.clearfactr.com/🔗 CONNECT WITH ALEXANDER 👥 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccobin/🐦 X - https://x.com/amccobin📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccobin/ 🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs aligned on advancing a free and prosperous future. Join our Angel Investor Network or submit your startup here: https://www.libertyventures.xyz/investing

In the latest episode of the Liberty Ventures podcast, Alexander McCobin speaks with Gonzalo Schwarz, President & CEO of the Archbridge Institute, about the vital role of opportunity and meaning in human flourishing.Key insights include:· Stagnating upward mobility: Only 50% of people today out-earn their parents, compared to 90% in the 1940s.· Declining business dynamism: Startups have dropped from 12% of businesses in the 1970s to just 8% today, with closures matching new ventures.· The downside of security focus: Prioritizing guaranteed income and jobs can suppress the dynamism needed for innovation and growth.The conversation emphasizes the need to celebrate purpose-driven entrepreneurs like Sam Walton and Daniel Lubetzky, whose risks and leadership drive progress, solve problems, and create upward mobility.By amplifying these stories, we can inspire a culture of dynamism, innovation, and limitless opportunity for future generations.🔗 CONNECT WITH GONZALO 👥 Linkedin -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gonzalo-schwarz-77479117/🌐 Website - https://www.archbridgeinstitute.org/🔗 CONNECT WITH ALEXANDER 👥 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccobin/🐦 X - https://x.com/amccobin📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccobin/ 🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs aligned on advancing a free and prosperous future. Join our Angel Investor Network or submit your startup here: https://www.libertyventures.xyz/investing

In this engaging panel discussion, Alexander McCobin, founder of Liberty Ventures and Principled Business, dives deep into the challenges facing business leaders who struggle with embracing capitalism. Joined by a powerhouse group of entrepreneurs, Jane Poynter (CEO of Space Perspective), Colin Greenspon (Founder of Narya), and Matt Cole (CEO of Strive), they explore:- Why many business leaders resist embracing capitalism – despite being active capitalists themselves.- The importance of standing unapologetically for capitalism – and defending the system that enables prosperity.- How to align your business with your personal values – and create a company driven by mission and innovation.- Real-world examples of entrepreneurs driving change:Jane’s Space Perspective – democratizing space travel through innovative, non-rocket technology.- Colin’s Narya – backing bold entrepreneurs to solve world problems and push the boundaries of what’s possible.- Matt’s Strive – advocating for a pro-capitalism agenda and challenging ESG-driven corporate policies.- The impact of values-driven businesses – and how the future of entrepreneurship can align with free-market capitalism to make a lasting difference.With the rise of ESG, DEI, and other policies that challenge the free market, these leaders discuss their journey of building businesses that promote innovation, meritocracy, and the fearless pursuit of truth.Key takeaways include:- How capitalists can break free from societal pressure and advocate for what they believe in.- Practical advice for building businesses that create lasting change.- The importance of staying mission-focused and unapologetic in the pursuit of success.These leaders show that success comes from having a clear vision, being mission-driven, and standing firm on principles—no matter the challenges.🔗 CONNECT WITH JANE👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-poynter/🌐 Website - https://spaceperspective.com/🔗 CONNECT WITH MATT👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcole-cfa/🌐 Website - https://strive.com/🔗 CONNECT WITH COLIN 👥 Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colingreenspon/🌐 Website - https://naryavc.com/🔗 CONNECT WITH ALEXANDER 👥 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccobin/🐦 X - https://x.com/amccobin📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccobin/ 🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs aligned on advancing a free and prosperous future. Join our Angel Investor Network or submit your startup here: https://www.libertyventures.xyz/investing

3 Lessons I Learned from a Multi-Billion-Dollar Company FounderIn business, it’s not just about the products or services we offer—it's about the relationships we build.Jim McCann, founder of 1-800-Flowers, shares a powerful story from his journey, one that goes beyond building a multi-billion-dollar company. It’s about connecting with people at every level.Here are the 3 key lessons I learned from Jim’s experience:1. Embrace Change: Jim’s company didn’t just adapt to the digital age, they led it—becoming a pioneer in using 800 numbers and later, the internet, to connect with customers in ways no one thought was possible.2. Culture is Everything: From his roots in family businesses to his latest venture, Smile Farms, Jim emphasizes the importance of creating a culture that goes beyond transactions and focuses on building real, meaningful relationships.3. Tech and Human Connection: While Jim has embraced AI and cutting-edge tech, he recognizes that human relationships—the ability to show empathy, build trust, and help people connect—are irreplaceable.The key takeaway? Relationships are at the heart of everything—whether you're building a business, a product, or a life worth living.🔗 CONNECT WITH JIM 👥 Linkedin -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim1800flowers/🐦 Twitter -  https://x.com/jim1800flowers🌐 Website - https://www.1800flowersinc.com/🔗 CONNECT WITH ALEXANDER 👥 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccobin/🐦 X - https://x.com/amccobin📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccobin/ 🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs aligned on advancing a free and prosperous future. Join our Angel Investor Network or submit your startup here: https://www.libertyventures.xyz/investing

In this exciting episode of the Liberty Ventures Podcast, I sit down with Chad Thevenot, Vice President for Advancement at the University of Austin, to dive into the incredible growth and impact of this innovative institution.We kick off with a huge congratulations for raising $11 MILLION just yesterday – a testament to the momentum building behind the University of Austin. In just three years, this university has gone from a mere idea to a functioning campus with students enrolled and on track to be accredited. What’s their secret? How have they managed to grow and attract so much attention in such a short time? Chad shares some powerful insights, including:- The Fearless Pursuit of Truth: How their mission of truth and academic integrity is redefining higher education.- The Right People in the Right Place: Why having a strong, mission-driven team from day one is vital to their success.- Austin’s Strategic Advantage: How being located in the heart of Texas has played a major role in their rise.- A Vision with Purpose: The crystal-clear vision of launching a university dedicated to the fearless pursuit of truth – and how they executed it with precision.- The Courage to Take Risks: How the students and faculty at UATX are not just facing challenges but actively seeking solutions to improve the system.Tune in to hear Chad’s story about overcoming challenges, the importance of building trust, and how a shared vision can propel you to success.Don't miss out on this conversation that highlights how the right idea, at the right time, with the right people, can transform an industry.🔗 CONNECT WITH CHAD 👥 Linkedin -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/chadthevenot/🔗 CONNECT WITH ALEXANDER 👥 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccobin/🐦 X - https://x.com/amccobin📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccobin/ 🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs aligned on advancing a free and prosperous future. Join our Angel Investor Network or submit your startup here: https://www.libertyventures.xyz/investing

In this episode of the Liberty Ventures podcast, Alexander McCobin interviews Hideto Nishitani, an inspiring entrepreneur whose journey highlights resilience and purpose-driven business leadership.Hideto shares critical insights into building successful companies, focusing on the importance of management and employee engagement in achieving goals.Key topics include:Understanding the core values that drive a business.Lessons from Hideto’s entrepreneurial journey, such as investing in people and fostering a supportive company culture.Navigating challenges as an entrepreneur and leveraging community and support networks.Hideto also provides a glimpse into his venture capital work, sharing what he looks for when evaluating new investments. His passion for creating impactful enterprises and helping others makes this episode a must-listen for anyone in the entrepreneurial space.🔗 CONNECT WITH ALEXANDER 👥 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mccobin/🐦 X - https://x.com/amccobin📸 Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mccobin/ 🚀 LIBERTY VENTURESLiberty Ventures is an ecosystem of purpose-driven investors and entrepreneurs aligned on advancing a free and prosperous future. Join our Angel Investor Network or submit your startup here: https://www.libertyventures.xyz/investing