Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur | Start and Grow Your Own Business

What if you could transform your passion into a thriving business? Join us for an inspiring conversation with Justin Powell, the mastermind behind a successful audiovisual integration company. Justin takes us on a fascinating journey from his high school days as a musician to becoming a professional sound engineer with over two decades of experience. With his unique blend of audio and IT skills, Justin shares the secrets behind creating exceptional audiovisual experiences and how understanding both the technical equipment and the environment can make all the difference. Tune in to learn about the common pitfalls in audio setups and why expertise is key to crafting systems that enhance both commercial and residential spaces.Discover how local businesses are revolutionizing customer engagement with cutting-edge strategies and technologies. We dive into the innovative transformation of a Watertown, Massachusetts electrician's showroom into a dazzling event venue. Explore the rise of networked control AV systems that simplify complex setups into intuitive interfaces, enabling seamless control over lighting, sound, and visuals. Our episode takes you behind the scenes of setting up effective AV systems for various events, offering insights from years of live sound experience. Plus, get excited about the ever-evolving possibilities of smart home technology and how it's reshaping both personal life and business operations.Our exploration doesn't stop there; we delve into the entrepreneurial mindset that drives success in tech and business. From the transition from freelancer to business owner, Justin shares personal anecdotes about balancing technical expertise with essential soft skills. Learn how automating home systems can free up time to focus on growth and why maintaining clear communication with clients is crucial. Hear about the importance of passion, dedication, and hard work in building a business, and why the human aspect of business—focusing on impact and quality of life improvements—can set a company apart. Join us for an episode filled with valuable insights and stories that promise to inspire and educate.ABOUT JUSTINCEO and founder Justin Powell boasts more than two decades of expertise in sound engineering, complemented by a decade of hands-on experience in live production and audio-visual installations. Having collaborated with various organizations across Southern California, Justin has earned a reputation for crafting user-friendly and intuitive systems that deliver exceptional results. We believe in simplifying the audio-visual experience without compromising quality. Whether you require a comprehensive design for a 1000-seat outdoor amphitheater or the installation of a compact residential system, we offer solutions at competitive prices that outshine major online retailers. Justin holds a bachelors degree in Information Technology and several industry certifications.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Inland AV Solutions’ WebsiteConnect with Justin on LinkedIn

Trevor Koverko's journey from aspiring NHL star to tech entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. After a devastating car accident ended his hockey career, Trevor navigated the tumultuous landscape of entrepreneurship to redefine his life's purpose. Listen as he candidly shares the ups and downs of his path, including the trials of a failed startup and the eventual triumph with successful companies like Polymath and Sapien. His story is a testament to resilience, embracing new challenges, and the power of reinvention, reminding us that it's never too late to find a new direction.The conversation continues with Trevor's insights on creating successful tech businesses through experimentation and adaptation. Discover the importance of a strong team, surrounded by big thinkers, and the role of failure as a stepping stone to success. Trevor emphasizes the critical nature of passion and foundational belief in a company's mission while navigating the ever-evolving business landscape. His experience with Polymath illustrates the delicate balance of timing, luck, and learning from past mistakes, offering valuable lessons for anyone in the startup world.Finally, we explore the future of AI startups, a field ripe with both opportunities and challenges. Trevor shares how Sapien leverages proprietary data to carve out a competitive edge, drawing parallels between AI's current landscape and the early days of the internet. Engage with Trevor's perspective on achieving product market fit, the significance of AI tools, and the unprecedented potential for innovation in today's rapidly evolving tech scene. Join us for this captivating episode, where the spirit of entrepreneurship and the promise of AI intersect, offering insights that could transform your approach to business and technology.ABOUT TREVOR Trevor Koverko loves investing in, co founding companies with, and hanging out with other founders (especially in Web3). Trevor started out as a pro athlete getting drafted by the NHL's New York Rangers in 2005. A few years later, his career officially ended after a car accident. He was hit by a fully-loaded transport truck, sent to the ICU and diagnosed with a 'catastrophic' brain injury.With Hockey over he knew he needed a new purpose in life and at the perfect time he discovered entrepreneurship. Since then, he’s founded multiple companies. The first one… failed. The second one… sold. And over the next 12 years, he built startups, including Polymath, which has since raised $75m and done 8-figures in revenue. Most recently he co-founded Sapien, a data marketplace that helps long tail AI models close the performance gap with big tech via a mobile data labeling game.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Sapien's WebsiteConnect with Trevor on LinkedInFollow Trevor on InstagramFind Trevor on X

Discover the secret to revolutionizing your business communication with Teresa Overskei, a trailblazer in tech and strategy who has worked with powerhouses like Meta and Morgan Stanley. Teresa shares her journey from the vibrant corporate landscape of Tokyo to founding Coral Messaging, her innovative start-up aimed at transforming the way businesses use WhatsApp. We unravel how this platform, essential in regions where it practically equates to the internet, can offer businesses a transformative tool for personalized and effective customer engagement.Explore the fascinating intersection of AI and WhatsApp, where businesses can elevate their customer relationships to new heights. Teresa delves into the dynamic role of AI-driven virtual assistants in enhancing client interactions across industries such as real estate, wealth management, and luxury retail. With real-world examples, we uncover how these technologies streamline communications, allowing businesses to maintain high engagement and meaningful connections with their clients, ultimately reshaping the standards of customer relationship management.Join us as we navigate the entrepreneurial challenges and triumphs Teresa encountered while building Coral Messaging, an official WhatsApp partner. From navigating the ever-evolving tech landscape to embracing the necessity of flexibility and short-term planning, Teresa offers invaluable insights for fellow entrepreneurs. We discuss the importance of listening to client needs and being adaptable in a world where AI and messaging technologies are rapidly advancing. This episode is a treasure trove of advice for anyone looking to leverage the power of WhatsApp to innovate and succeed in the digital age.ABOUT TERESATeresa Overskei has navigated a dynamic and varied 20-year career, primarily within the corporate sector. Her professional journey began in corporate strategy before taking her to Tokyo, driven by a passion for the city, where she worked in asset management. She later attended business school and then transitioned into more intensive roles in finance, notably in investment banking, in London. During her tenure as an investment banker, she specialized in covering tech companies, which sparked her transition from financial advisory to the tech industry itself. Teresa then moved to Paris to take on roles in corporate development and operations at the tech company Dizer. Her career is a testament to following one's interests and seizing diverse opportunities across the globe.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Coral Messaging’s WebsiteConnect with Teresa on LinkedIn

What if the key to success isn't dreaming up the next big idea, but rather mastering the art of execution? Join us for an insightful conversation with Paul Mauritz, an exceptional leader who journeyed from early retirement to becoming the CEO of SignalQ. At just 12 years old, Paul sold his first business, igniting a career that spans military service and the successful growth and sale of NetCraftsmen LLC. Paul's story is a testament to the power of grit and determination, offering invaluable lessons on how focusing on execution can drive impactful business outcomes.SignalQ's innovative approach to enhancing global safety through gunshot detection technology is nothing short of revolutionary. Born out of Loughborough and Company's expertise in signal intelligence, this technology leverages everyday devices, transforming smartphones into powerful tools for detecting gunshots and other acoustic events. Discover how SignalQ's founder's vision and collaboration with a linguistics expert led to this breakthrough, and explore SignalQ’s strategic partnerships with law enforcement and educational institutions aiming to create a safer world. This episode delves into the ambitious goal of embedding their technology on billions of phones, offering a unique perspective on utilizing technology for public safety.Paul shares his vision for balancing profit with purpose, ensuring SignalQ's mission aligns with his personal values and business acumen. Hear about his plans to build a resilient company that leaves a lasting legacy. Paul underscores the importance of timing and strategic thinking, offering a masterclass in leadership for aspiring entrepreneurs.ABOUT PAUL‍Paul Mauritz brings extensive executive leadership experience to SignalQ. Over the past decade, he served as CEO of NetCraftsmen, LLC, where he significantly grew the business, ultimately leading to its successful acquisition by a private equity-backed firm. Paul's strength is not in creation, but in execution.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit SignalQ’s WebsiteFollow SignalQ on LinkedInFind SignalQ on FacebookConnect with Paul on LinkedIn

Discover how artificial intelligence can transform your business and extend far beyond being just a buzzword. Join us as we learn from Chad Sanderson, the visionary co-founder of DeepHumanX, who is on a mission to blend AI with human potential. Chad’s unique journey from a liberal arts background to a leading role in the world of AI offers a fresh perspective on how technology can augment human capabilities and redefine what it means to be a leader in today’s rapidly evolving world. Prepare to be inspired as Chad highlights how AI is set to surpass the internet's impact in shaping our future.Unlock the secrets to maximizing relevance with AI as a strategic business partner. Chad shares invaluable insights into how AI can revolutionize creative processes, streamline workflows, and free up time for business owners to focus on their unique strengths. From customized GPT models to Google's Notebook LM, this episode reveals practical examples of AI tools transforming the way we generate ideas, create content, and validate strategies. Experience firsthand stories that showcase AI’s potential to provide fresh perspectives, making your business more agile and relevant in the fast-paced technological landscape.The journey doesn’t stop there. Chad offers guidance for leaders navigating the challenges of AI integration, emphasizing the importance of adaptability and swift action. Learn about the transformational resources available through DeepHumanX, including the Relevance Academy and the podcast "The Relatively Relevant AI." Chad’s approach to workshops, retreats, and coaching fosters self-discovery, equipping leaders with the mindset needed to embrace AI and drive meaningful change. Don’t miss this engaging episode that encourages wantrepreneurs and entrepreneurs alike to embrace technological change and seize the opportunities AI presents.ABOUT CHADhad Sanderson is an award-winning business strategy, sales, and marketing disruptor with 25+ years of proven results in driving revenue growth, facilitating market expansions, leading digital transformation and technology adoption, and building high-performance teams. He has worked with solo-prenuers, start-ups and globally recognized brands from Adobe to the Minnesota Vikings to Ingersoll Rand and more. Today he is Co-Founder and Minister of Mavericks for DeepHumanX, a company founded to help leaders not only understand and leverage AI, but in doing so also effectively augment their leadership with AI.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit DeepHumanX’s WebsiteSign Up to the AI Opportunity and Your Time Accelerator Course and Get 50% off using the code DHX-W2EL (coupon expires June 30th, 2025)Sign Up to the AI-Augmented Self-Leadership: Fundamentals Certification Course and get 50% off using the code DHX-W2EL (coupon expires June 30th, 2025)Subscribe to DeepHumanX’s YouTube ChannelConnect with Chad on LinkedIn

Rachael Chestnut, the innovative founder and CEO of Play Nice Agency, joins us to share her remarkable journey from government roles to leading a dynamic marketing and branding firm. She offers invaluable insights into crafting impactful brands through big-picture thinking and strategic storytelling. Discover how Rachael's experiences have shaped her unique approach to branding, emphasizing a human voice and cultural relevance. Her story is a testament to the power of bold vision and meaningful connections in the world of marketing.The episode unfolds with a focus on the essence of authenticity in branding. We discuss how embracing genuine communication can elevate brand experiences and create deeper connections with audiences. Rachael explores how brands can act as catalysts for cultural change by addressing societal issues and resonating with human emotions. We highlight the importance of aligning brand messages with personal and cultural contexts, encouraging leaders to inspire authenticity within their teams.Finally, we dive into the complex relationship between personal branding and business success, with insights from icons like Elon Musk and Russell Brunson. Strategies for maintaining cohesive brand presence, mastering owned media, and leveraging social media are covered extensively. We also touch on the emerging role of AI in marketing. Rachael's contributions provide a treasure trove of strategies and inspiration for entrepreneurs eager to build a robust brand ecosystem while staying true to their unique voices. Tune in for an episode rich with lessons and reflections from the forefront of the branding world.ABOUT RACHAELRachael Chestnut is the Founder and CEO of The Play Nice Agency, a trailblazing marketing and branding firm dedicated to reimagining and redefining the identities of today's leading brands. Her leadership has positioned the agency as an industry force, empowering clients to outperform their competition and expand their influence.Before her entrepreneurial journey, Rachael spent a decade steering Corporate Communications for Deloitte Consulting's Office of the CEO and managing Congressional Responses for The Missile Defense Agency's Directorate of Operations. Her experience across private and government sectors inspired her to establish an agency that fills the communication gaps she witnessed, infusing human voice and culturally relevant storytelling into brand narratives.When she's not shaping brand stories, Rachael can be found exploring the outdoors. An avid hiker, climber, and backpacker, she delights in discovering new trails and terrains, reflecting her adventurous spirit in both nature and business.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit The Play Nice Agency’s WebsiteConnect with Rachael on LinkedIn

Curious about how technology can transform your business into a powerhouse of efficiency and security? Join us for an insightful conversation with Spencer Scherer, the innovative CEO and founder of Newf Technology. Spencer shares his journey from a tech-savvy kid to a leading IT and cybersecurity expert, offering invaluable insights on how to harness technology as a customizable tool for success. His dedication to solving tech frustrations and empowering small businesses shines through as he discusses strategies to make digital operations more secure and efficient.We'll explore the often-overlooked importance of cybersecurity for small businesses, where even the smallest oversight can make you vulnerable to threats like ransomware. Spencer provides practical advice on preventative measures, such as utilizing password managers and multi-factor authentication, to ensure robust protection. Discover how outsourcing IT needs to managed service providers (MSPs) can offer tailored solutions that enhance security and streamline business processes, turning technology into a valuable asset rather than a constant headache.This episode also delves into crafting a business-focused IT strategy, where understanding your company's goals is crucial before implementing tech solutions. Spencer discusses how integrating IT with business processes can drive growth and uncover cost-saving opportunities, using real-world examples like a New York City law firm's seamless transition to cloud-based remote work. Learn about the benefits of working with a fractional CTO and creating a technology roadmap to ensure that your systems are scalable and up-to-date, setting your business on a path to success. Tune in to hear Spencer's expert advice and inspiring stories that will motivate you to embrace technology's full potential.ABOUT SPENCERSpencer Scherer, CEO and founder of Newf Technology, LLC, a company that provides personalized, hands-on IT solutions to individuals who are looking to simplify and secure their digital lives. With over 10 years of IT operational experience and a passion for helping people feel confident in their technology, Spencer specializes in cybersecurity and customized tech support for clients who often feel overwhelmed by the fast pace of digital advancements. His commitment to building long-term, trusted relationships sets him apart as he empowers clients to take control of their digital operations with ease.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Newf Technology’s WebsiteConnect with Spencer on LinkedIn

What if you could align your business with your life's passions and find true fulfillment? Join us as we uncover the extraordinary journey of Katie-Beth Schultz, whose path from aspiring dancer to entrepreneurial powerhouse is nothing short of inspiring. Through her story, Katie-Beth reveals how life's uncertainties can lead to unexpected successes, showcasing the inherent artistry within us all that can be channeled into entrepreneurship. You'll hear how she transformed her diverse experiences in creative roles into a thriving business, Sunburst Strategies Co, which empowers small business owners to merge purpose with passion.Katie-Beth's holistic approach to life and work shines through as she shares her insights on integrating personal and professional challenges. By likening these challenges to a choreography routine, she illustrates the importance of addressing foundational issues to achieve true success. Through compelling sports analogies and reflections on self-discovery, Katie-Beth emphasizes the importance of seeing the bigger picture and aligning all facets of life for entrepreneurial growth. Her philosophy stresses that business is not just about transactions, but about creating harmony between life and work.Discover the transformative power of intentionality with Katie-Beth's unique perspective. She shares how being present and strategic in both personal and business matters can lead to a balanced and fulfilling life. From practical tools like business budget templates to thoughtful smoothie recipes, Katie-Beth provides solutions to help entrepreneurs be intentional and reflective. By assessing motivations and embracing flexibility, she encourages us to focus on what truly brings joy and value. Tune in to learn how honest reflection and intentional planning can unlock your creativity and propel your business forward.ABOUT KATIE-BETHKatie-Beth Schultz is an artist turned entrepreneur who uses life's uncertainties to uncover the desires of her heart and achieve the life + biz goals she never thought possible. She has a passion for empowering small business owners to get real with their needs so they can get back to pursuing the passions that set their soul on fire & live the life of their dreams. With over a decade of small business experience, she thrives on unearthing problems in an organization and working with small business owners to come up with a solution.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit The Sunburst Strategies Co’s WebsiteFind The Sunburst Strategies Co on FacebookFollow The Sunburst Strategies Co on Instagram

Ever wondered how a child’s dream of being a detective, sniper, or inventor could eventually lead to founding an innovative tech company? Kyle Hudson, the visionary behind Stacklist, joins us to unravel this fascinating trajectory. His story showcases the power of embracing diverse interests and neurodivergent-driven passion, ultimately leading to collaborations with tech behemoths like Google and Spotify. Kyle's journey is a testament to the idea that there's no predetermined path in entrepreneurship, and his insights might just inspire you to trust your instincts and seek out new challenges. Discover how Stacklist is changing the game in organizing and recalling information. We dive into its practical applications, from simplifying networking at events to aiding in complex real estate searches. In a rapidly evolving tech landscape overwhelmed by niche-specific apps, Stacklist offers a more holistic, integrated approach. Adding to its utility, Kyle shares how collaboration features allow for seamless teamwork across platforms, making it an indispensable tool for managing personal and professional interests alike.Lastly, join our exploration of unconventional entrepreneurship paths and the concept of being an "omnipotentialite." Drawing from Kyle's multifaceted background, including collaborations with notable personalities like Kevin Jonas, we ponder why traditional career paths often baffle older generations. Highlighting the strength found in varied interests, we encourage entrepreneurs to embrace adaptability and incremental pivots.ABOUT KYLEKyle Hudson is the founder and CEO of Stacklist. He's spent more than two decades helping teams such as Google, Spotify, Marriott, and more research, design, and launch products and services into the world. Now Kyle has decided to take that expertise and build a product that helps people share and discover their favorites things, places, and experiences easily.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Stacklist’s WebsiteFind all of Kyle’s InfoListen to Kyle’s PodcastConnect with Kyle on LinkedIn

Discover the remarkable journey of Rose Sprinkle, a talented storyteller and award-winning author of the Little Virtues children's book series. Rose shares her inspirational transition from a career in visual and graphic design to becoming a passionate creator of children's literature aimed at fostering emotional resilience and character building. Through her mission-driven business, she highlights the powerful role of storytelling in addressing societal issues, offering invaluable insights into the entrepreneurial spirit and the creative processes that fuel her success.Explore the art of authenticity in saturated markets with Rose as she emphasizes originality stemming from one's true self rather than mere novelty. Drawing inspiration from Austin Kleon's "Steal Like an Artist," Rose reveals how embracing this notion has shaped her writing and publishing journey. We delve into the significance of respecting children's experiences and creating stories that authentically reflect the human experience, aiming to leave a legacy of inclusivity and understanding for all ages.Lastly, we reflect on the importance of mentorship, strategic thinking, and the transformative power of personal relationships in entrepreneurship. From romantic partnerships to business collaborations, Rose shares how these connections have catalyzed her personal growth and business expansion. Celebrating her achievements, like TheLittleVirtues.com, we uncover the blend of storytelling, business acumen, and social proof that defines her journey. ABOUT ROSERose Sprinkle is the creative mind behind The Little Virtues, a series of children's books born from her love of storytelling and passion for personal growth. As a mother, Rose deeply cares about the well-being of children and families worldwide. Her books, each inspired by personal struggles and moments of development, address universal needs for positive, uplifting messages. Rose's work aims to foster meaningful connections and create precious memories as young readers grow. Through The Little Virtues, she shares valuable life lessons, encouraging both children and adults to embrace personal development and emotional intelligence.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit The Little Virtues WebsiteConnect with Rose on LinkedIn