The Pitch

Luisa Castellanos, Co-founder and COO of Science On Call, revolutionizes tech support in restaurants with an AI-driven texting solution. She discusses how her startup, already in 900 locations, aims to enhance efficiency and reduce employee turnover. The conversation dives into the challenges of restaurant tech integration and automation's role in customer service. Luisa also shares insights on securing startup funding and the unique hurdles entrepreneurs face in the restaurant sector, while paving a path towards scalability.

Exciting news for startup founders: applications for upcoming funding opportunities are now open! The hosts dive into the art of pitching, highlighting the critical role of storytelling in submissions. They express a passion for mission-driven entrepreneurs and the diverse ideas they bring to the table. If you're seeking to elevate your startup, this is a golden chance to learn what catches the eye of investors.

Kelsey Willock, Co-founder and CEO of Aura Finance, is on a mission to heal people's relationship with money through innovative financial wellness solutions. She shares her inspiring journey from overcoming student debt to leading a startup that's making waves with major corporate deals. The discussion dives into tackling financial anxiety in the workplace, the evolution of fintech services, and navigating the transition to corporate partnerships. Kelsey highlights the resilience required in the startup world and the potential impact of her platform on employee financial literacy.

Royi Metser, Founder and CEO of Avelo, introduces the world’s first smart running shoe, aimed at preventing injuries while enhancing performance. He shares his personal running journey and discusses the unique tracking technology that sets his shoes apart. The conversation dives into market potential, addressing consumer skepticism about subscription models and costs. Royi highlights the balance between innovation and traditional comfort, emphasizing how Avelo could transition from niche to lifestyle brand, capturing the running community's heart.

Whitman Kwok, founder and CEO of KAV Sports, brings a fascinating twist to bike safety with his 3D-printed custom helmets. He discusses the urgent need for better protection in cycling, driven by alarming concussion rates. Venture capitalist Rohit Gupta chimes in on investment strategies in innovative manufacturing, while highlighting the potential for high returns. The conversation also dives into balancing sustainability, business growth, and the heartfelt stories of customers who trust these helmets to keep them safe during outdoor adventures.

Michele Callegari has grown Barberino's to the #1 luxury men's grooming brand in Italy. Can he replicate the same success in the US – and if he does, will the Italian investors want their cut?This is The Pitch for Barberino’s. Featuring investors Charles Hudson, Elizabeth Yin,  Jesse Middleton, and two new investors to the show, Ben Zises and Kate McAndrew....Watch Michele pitch his startup on YouTube (@thepitchshow) and Patreon (@ThePitch)Join our private investor community on Substack at thepitch.fundSubscribe to our public email newsletter insider.thepitch.showRegister for the Season 13 Finale Watch Party at pitch.show/party*Disclaimer: No offer to invest in Barberino’s is being made to or solicited from the listening audience on today’s show. The information provided on this show is not intended to be investment advice and should not be relied upon as such. The investors on today’s episode are providing their opinions based on their own assessment of the business presented. Those opinions should not be considered professional investment advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cathy Huang, Founder and CEO of FolioWorks, is on a mission to revolutionize internships by connecting companies with government subsidies to reduce hiring costs. She shares her personal journey into the tech world and the significance of making internships accessible to all. The conversation dives into unique pricing strategies for startups versus large enterprises and the startup's challenges in attracting enterprise customers. Cathy also highlights the evolving landscape of internships, emphasizing talent development and the importance of innovative solutions in a changing market.

Mike Burton wants to help every city turn drivers to riders with his smart bike lock. But will his “no checks under $100k” approach leave him backpedalling?This is The Pitch for Lockstop. Featuring investors Jesse Middleton, Mark Phillips, Paige Finn Doherty and Will Weisman....Watch Mike pitch his urban mobility startup on YouTube (@thepitchshow) and Patreon (@ThePitch)Join our private investor community on Substack at thepitch.fundSubscribe to our public email newsletter insider.thepitch.showRegister for the Season 13 Finale Watch Party at pitch.show/party*Disclaimer: No offer to invest in Lockstop is being made to or solicited from the listening audience on today’s show. The information provided on this show is not intended to be investment advice and should not be relied upon as such. The investors on today’s episode are providing their opinions based on their own assessment of the business presented. Those opinions should not be considered professional investment advice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A Johns Hopkins ER doctor, a Formula 1 engineer, and an artist walk into The Pitch Room... meet this season's extraordinary founders! We screened 2,000 companies, and 12 made the cut. But with negotiations turned up to 11, will they be ready to face off with the sharpest VCs in the game? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Capella Kirst, founder of Gecko Materials, specializes in biomimicry-based adhesives, while Julia Dixon leads SAI, an AI platform aimed at democratizing college admissions. They discuss the fascinating intersection of innovation and nature, revealing how Gecko Materials harnesses gecko-inspired technology. The conversation also highlights the pivotal shifts in venture capital dynamics, reflecting on a robust funding journey and the emotional highs and lows of startup pitching. Listeners gain insights into educational reform and the role of technology in enhancing college access.