Speaking of Startups

In today’s episode of Speaking of Start-Ups, we interview Gloria Folaron founder of Leantime, a software company adding a human touch to project manager through behavioral science and AI. In our hour together, we discuss Gloria’s journey from the RD to the world of technology and how her desire to help translates into the software industry. Key takeaways from episode 157: Measuring purpose With 70% of projects failing, learn the difference between “hard” and “soft” skills and how each impact a projects success rate. How terminology undermines our understanding of simple processes. The confidence that emerges as part of the start-up journey. Overcoming capital challenges as a start-up. The importance of timing, and more importantly, waiting for the right time to come your way. Leveraging gamification to help the organization AND responsibly encourage employees. The benefits of open-source technology. Nurturing your community when deploying an open-source model. How leading with value can benefit and hinder growth. The importance of simplicity in the business and the end product. Why productivity is a product of company culture. How vulnerability precedes trust and the beauty of helping people feel validates. And much more…. Ever wonder how Alpaca farming and glamping effect software development? Tune in to this exciting episode to learn more.   William Bissett is the owner of and an Investment Advisor Representative of Portus Wealth Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Portus Wealth Advisors. The topics discussed and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener. Portus Wealth Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice, listeners are encouraged to discuss their financial needs with the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstance. Investments described herein may be speculative and may involve a substantial risk of loss. Interests may be offered only to persons who qualify as accredited investors under applicable state and federal regulation or an eligible employee of the management company. There generally is no public market for the Interests. Prospective investors should particularly note that many factors affect performance, including changes in market conditions and interest rates, and other economic, political or financial developments. Past performance is not, and should not be construed as, indicative of future results.

Have you heard about the immigrant from India who moves to Belmont, NC, becomes a Clemson fan, and walks into a South Carolina Gamecock fan club bar to watch a football game? You’ll hear that story and more in our podcast this week with Anoop Menon, Founder and CEO of Confianz. Anoop was building custom solutions from open-sourced ERP platforms for small to medium businesses (SMBs) when he moved to America ten years ago with his business, Confianz. Along the way, Anoop chased many rabbits (i.e., new business ideas) before having to put guardrails up that kept him focused on Confianz unless a new idea hit specific key metrics. Stackbench, which caters to the law enforcement sector, did just that. And now Anoop has the team to help grow Confianz while he spends time building up Stackbench. Highlights from episode 156: The importance of coaching for entrepreneurs Cultural differences in business between India and the U.S. Why being customer-focused is as important as your niche Active listening is a highly coveted yet grossly underappreciated skill The power of saying no when building your business The importance of good market research when pitching new products in your company Why having an open and honest dialogue with customers can be the best way to grow your business How working for free can pay off huge in the long run Importance of customer-testing before deployment Why relationships, trust, and customer service trump everything else in business When and how to use resellers to grow your business Check out this episode to hear about Anoop’s journey and the relationships, humor, and lessons he’s learned along the way.   William Bissett is the owner of and an Investment Advisor Representative of Portus Wealth Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Portus Wealth Advisors. The topics discussed, and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener. Portus Wealth Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice, and listeners are encouraged to discuss their financial needs with the appropriate professional regarding their individual circumstances.  Investments described herein may be speculative and involve a substantial loss risk. Interests may be offered only to persons who qualify as accredited investors under applicable state and federal regulation or an eligible employee of the management company. There generally is no public market for the Interests. Prospective investors should particularly note that many factors affect performance, including changes in market conditions and interest rates, and other economic, political or financial developments. Past performance is not, and should not be construed as, indicative of future results.

Recently, I had the pleasure of interviewing Peter Marsh, CEO and founder of Flywheel Coworking and Converge South. Peter journey started with cabinet making. After that, he leveraged his contacts in the furniture design space to get into building design. Partnering with his wife, who oversees the interior design aspect of their business, they spotted the co-working space movement early on. Using the couple’s aptitude for design, engineering, and spotting good opportunities, they built a co-working space that supports the budding entrepreneur in every step of the way. In doing so, they’ve gotten the communities these spaces call home involved to boost the start-up ecosystem and the community itself. Highlights from episode 155 include: Spotting the trend of co-working early. Secrets to co-working spaces. How he used innovation out of desperation at Flywheel to benefit the entrepreneurs who use his buildings. Why the proper infrastructure in the building AND in the community is making such a huge difference. Peter’s key ingredients to his multi-faceted approach. How Flywheel take a local crowdfunding approach to boost business and the community. The Converge South Conference and the celebration for scalable investable entrepreneurship. Check out our first episode on the new Speaking of Start-Ups domain and learn how Peter used the collective mindset of co-working spaces to boost entrepreneurship and the communities where his buildings are located.     William Bissett is the owner of and an Investment Advisor Representative of Portus Wealth Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Portus Wealth Advisors. The topics discussed and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener. Portus Wealth Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice, listeners are encouraged to discuss their financial needs with the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstance. Investments described herein may be speculative and may involve a substantial risk of loss. Interests may be offered only to persons who qualify as accredited investors under applicable state and federal regulation or an eligible employee of the management company. There generally is no public market for the Interests. Prospective investors should particularly note that many factors affect performance, including changes in market conditions and interest rates, and other economic, political or financial developments. Past performance is not, and should not be construed as, indicative of future results.

In this episode of the Charlotte Angel Connection, we talk with Heather McCullough of Society 54. During today’s podcast you’ll learn how Heather took a job and turned it into a business by paying attention to what she liked about her work. Heather’s marketing expertise and her drive to help lawyers keep their attention on billable hours built the successful platform now employing 11 remote workers spread across the U.S. Highlights from the episode include: Carving out company with passion Finding leaks in the buckets and using your knowledge to offer value Transitioning from employee to business owner Why gamifying fires up the competitive juices Adding technology to aid a coaching business Coaching vs technology for scaling a business Knowing when to expand Life in the day of an all-female team Challenges and benefits of remote working Funding challenges and benefits of being a female founder How entrepreneurship affects the family How travelling across the US in a camper van is like being and entrepreneur Heather’s impressive Georgia Bulldog bark Check out this episode to learn how Heather took a profession and turned it into a profitable business, creating an asset that her family is proud of, and her legal customers are grateful for. William Bissett is the owner of and an Investment Advisor Representative of Portus Wealth Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Portus Wealth Advisors. The topics discussed and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener. Portus Wealth Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice, listeners are encouraged to discuss their financial needs with the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstance. Investments described herein may be speculative and may involve a substantial risk of loss. Interests may be offered only to persons who qualify as accredited investors under applicable state and federal regulation or an eligible employee of the management company. There generally is no public market for the Interests. Prospective investors should particularly note that many factors affect performance, including changes in market conditions and interest rates, and other economic, political or financial developments. Past performance is not, and should not be construed as, indicative of future results.

In this episode of the "Charlotte Angel Connection", Marcia Dawood, a seasoned angel investor, accomplished TEDX Charlotte speaker, member of the Angel Capital Association and SEC Small Business Capital Formation Committee shares her recipe of "doing good by doing well" by “helping entrepreneurs’ dreams come true’. Marcia takes us through her journey of becoming an angel investor, how ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) helped her see the true value of investing in start-ups to affect meaningful change, and the value that ALL angel’s bring to the table when investing. Key Highlights: Comparing the angel investment environment across the U.S. Becoming and angel by “contributing through curiosity” and embracing “story time”. The value of waiting for the right opportunity. How to start with as little as $50. How a family ALS diagnosis inspired Marsha to use angel investing to give back. The value of company contribution to changes vs. charities. Encouraging the younger generation to get involved. Learn more about Marcia Dawood and the work she’s doing to promote angel investing in the U.S. and abroad, by checking out her podcast, the Angel Next Door. We definitely recommend Marcia’s Charlotte, NC TedX talk to learn more about her as well as the launch of her upcoming book.   William Bissett is the owner of and an Investment Advisor Representative of Portus Wealth Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Portus Wealth Advisors. The topics discussed and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener. Portus Wealth Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice, listeners are encouraged to discuss their financial needs with the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstance. Investments described herein may be speculative and may involve a substantial risk of loss. Interests may be offered only to persons who qualify as accredited investors under applicable state and federal regulation or an eligible employee of the management company. There generally is no public market for the Interests. Prospective investors should particularly note that many factors affect performance, including changes in market conditions and interest rates, and other economic, political or financial developments. Past performance is not, and should not be construed as, indicative of future results.

In the latest episode of the Charlotte Angel Connection podcast, we had the privilege of speaking with Leo Adams, the visionary founder of Skye Link Aerial Imaging. At Skye Link, Leo and his team have harnessed the potential of drones to offer solutions in industries ranging from real estate and construction to renewable energy. They are at the forefront of utilizing drone technology to provide valuable insights, streamline operations, and enhance decision-making processes. We delve into the importance of systematizing processes for scalability. Leo emphasizes the significance of creating sustainable, repeatable systems within the business to reach new levels of growth. Key Highlights: Leo Adams' journey from drone hobbyist to the visionary founder of Skye Link Aerial Imaging. Utilizing drone technology to provide solutions across industries, from real estate to renewable energy. Harnessing the power of data for efficient operations and decision-making. The significance of systematizing processes for scalability and growth. Personal insights into Leo's morning routine, growth mindset, and approach to personal and professional development. Aligning business growth with conscious capitalism and value creation. An inspirational story of innovation, collaboration, and success in the dynamic world of drone technology. Tune in to this high-flying 152nd episode of the Charlotte Angel Connection podcast to gain a deeper understanding of how Leo Adams and Skye Link Aerial Imaging are redefining industries through the transformative power of drone technology.     William Bissett is the owner of and an Investment Advisor Representative of Portus Wealth Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Portus Wealth Advisors. The topics discussed and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener. Portus Wealth Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice, listeners are encouraged to discuss their financial needs with the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstance. Investments described herein may be speculative and may involve a substantial risk of loss. Interests may be offered only to persons who qualify as accredited investors under applicable state and federal regulation or an eligible employee of the management company. There generally is no public market for the Interests. Prospective investors should particularly note that many factors affect performance, including changes in market conditions and interest rates, and other economic, political or financial developments. Past performance is not, and should not be construed as, indicative of future results.

Today, we have the pleasure of interviewing Steve Wilcenski, the co-founder of BN Nano, a company that specializes in developing nanomaterials with myriad properties and applications. With a focus on creating materials that are stronger, lighter, and more efficient in dissipating heat, BN Nano has captured the attention of various industries, including aerospace, defense, electronics, and clean energy. During our conversation, Steve delves into the fascinating world of nanomaterials, sharing the challenges he faced during the company's early stages and the strategic approach to expanding their customer base. He sheds light on BN Nano's groundbreaking work in water purification, revealing how their nanomaterials can remove harmful substances from water sources thus addressing environmental concerns we now face. Key Highlights: Introduction to BN Nano and its pioneering work in nanomaterials. Industries benefiting from BN Nano's materials: aerospace, defense, electronics, and clean energy. BN Nano's commitment to solving water pollution through innovative purification methods, through Invicta Water. Strategic partnerships and crowdfunding initiatives driving their growth. Plans to spin out the water purification division as a separate company. The urgency of BN Nano's mission to make a positive impact on global challenges. Tune in to the Charlotte Angel Connection’s 151st interview with Steve Wilcenski to gain deeper insights into BN Nano's revolutionary nanomaterials. William Bissett is the owner of and an Investment Advisor Representative of Portus Wealth Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Portus Wealth Advisors. The topics discussed and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener. Portus Wealth Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice, listeners are encouraged to discuss their financial needs with the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstance. Investments described herein may be speculative and may involve a substantial risk of loss. Interests may be offered only to persons who qualify as accredited investors under applicable state and federal regulation or an eligible employee of the management company. There generally is no public market for the Interests. Prospective investors should particularly note that many factors affect performance, including changes in market conditions and interest rates, and other economic, political or financial developments. Past performance is not, and should not be construed as, indicative of future results.

Today we welcome David Jones to the podcast. David founded Peak 10 (now known as Flexential), a hybrid IT infrastructure provider focused on colocation, connectivity, cloud, and managed solutions. David started Peak 10 in 1999 after being fired from a previous job. In 2010, he sold Peak 10 to a private equity group.  In 2014, they sold again to another private equity group (who is still the majority owner of the company).  David stayed on as Chairman until Peak 10 completed its acquisition of ViaWest in 2018, giving the newly formed combined company - Flexential - a national reach.  Today Flexential is a multi-billion-dollar company.   We cover many topics during our conversation with David, including… Surviving a recent critical health event & how it altered his sense of purpose The importance of recognizing and playing to teammates’ strengths Raising $1.5 million in 4 weeks for the original Peak 10 business plan Why expecting success can be a mistake The power of resilience in health, business, and life … as well as some of David’s accumulated wisdom from speaking with countless executives, founders, and investors. Please enjoy this conversation with David Jones.   William Bissett is the owner of and an Investment Advisor Representative of Portus Wealth Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Portus Wealth Advisors. The topics discussed and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener.    Portus Wealth Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice, listeners are encouraged to discuss their financial needs with the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstance.   Investments described herein may be speculative and may involve a substantial risk of loss. Interests may be offered only to persons who qualify as accredited investors under applicable state and federal regulation or an eligible employee of the management company. There generally is no public market for the Interests. Prospective investors should particularly note that many factors affect performance, including changes in market conditions and interest rates, and other economic, political or financial developments. Past performance is not, and should not be construed as, indicative of future results.

Today we welcome Alan Fitzpatrick to the podcast. Alan is the cofounder and CEO of Open Broadband, an internet service provider (ISP) focused on serving traditionally underserved areas. Alan and his cofounder, Kent Wenrich, started Open Broadband in 2016. Today, Open Broadband is one of Charlotte’s fastest growing startups, having been named to Charlotte Business Journal’s Fast 50 list each year since 2018. We cover several topics during our conversation with Alan, including… How $42B of federal government grants are changing the ISP space Rural and urban markets both containing underserved segments Meeting an angel investor through a startup pitch event in Raleigh Weighing exit opportunities in growth and decision-making How this business differs from their previous 2 software companies …as well as what’s next for Open Broadband in the coming years. And for those brave souls who want to listen to our original podcast with Alan, here is Episode 35 and Episode 36. Please enjoy this conversation with Alan Fitzpatrick.    William Bissett is the owner of and an Investment Advisor Representative of Portus Wealth Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Portus Wealth Advisors. The topics discussed and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener.    Portus Wealth Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice, listeners are encouraged to discuss their financial needs with the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstance.   Investments described herein may be speculative and may involve a substantial risk of loss. Interests may be offered only to persons who qualify as accredited investors under applicable state and federal regulation or an eligible employee of the management company. There generally is no public market for the Interests. Prospective investors should particularly note that many factors affect performance, including changes in market conditions and interest rates, and other economic, political or financial developments. Past performance is not, and should not be construed as, indicative of future results.

Today we welcome Meggie Williams to the podcast. Meggie is the founder and CEO of Skiptown, an all-in-one ecosystem for bar, park, and pet care services. Skiptown started as a dog-walking company named Waggle in 2016. Fast forward to late last year when Skiptown closed a $28M fundraising round to expand the concept around the country. By next year, Skiptown will have launched in Atlanta, Houston, and Denver in addition to the Charlotte location (with more coming). During our wide-ranging conversation with Meggie, we cover topics including… Losing 95% of revenue during the beginning of COVID Why ‘Riding the Scooter in the Rain’ is an important company value Her process for finding great investors and board members Being a mom and CEO of a fast-growing startup How Charlotte’s entrepreneurial ecosystem has grown over the years …as well as what’s next for Skiptown in the coming years. Please enjoy this conversation with Meggie Williams.   William Bissett is the owner of and an Investment Advisor Representative of Portus Wealth Advisors, a Registered Investment Adviser. Registration does not imply a certain level of skill or training. Opinions expressed on this program do not necessarily reflect those of Portus Wealth Advisors. The topics discussed and opinions given are not intended to address the specific needs of any listener.   Portus Wealth Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice, listeners are encouraged to discuss their financial needs with the appropriate professional regarding your individual circumstance.  Investments described herein may be speculative and may involve a substantial risk of loss. Interests may be offered only to persons who qualify as accredited investors under applicable state and federal regulation or an eligible employee of the management company. There generally is no public market for the Interests. Prospective investors should particularly note that many factors affect performance, including changes in market conditions and interest rates, and other economic, political or financial developments. Past performance is not, and should not be construed as, indicative of future results.