Founders' Forum

Ever wondered how AI is reshaping the business landscape? Get ready to uncover the secrets of AI's transformative power with our special guest, Det Ansinn, founder and president of BrickSimple LLC. From his beginnings in the Midwest to the bustling tech scene of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Det shares his incredible journey, offering a unique perspective on the resilience and adaptability needed in entrepreneurship. His firsthand experiences provide a rich, illuminating discussion on the significant changes AI is bringing to job dynamics and company roles.As we navigate through Det's personal milestones and career challenges, we also delve into BrickSimple's innovative approach to technology solutions. Learn about the serendipitous encounter at Doylestown Airport that reignited Det's passion for tech and led to the founding of his software development studio. BrickSimple’s ethos is built around radical innovation, especially in the realm of AI, and Det's insights on the importance of an external perspective in fostering innovation are invaluable. We also reflect on the company's unique strategy of relying on earned media and referrals, underscoring the authenticity of their approach.In our final segment, we explore the future of business through the lens of AI’s impact across various industries. Det draws parallels to the transformative introduction of the Netscape Navigator, suggesting that AI could not only enhance but also replace many current roles, particularly in fields like DevOps. We wrap up with a heartfelt discussion on the legacy of leadership and mentorship, emphasizing the lasting positive impacts on employees and the broader community. Don't miss this episode packed with valuable lessons and inspiration for anyone looking to navigate the future of business.About Det Ansinn:Det Ansinn is a serial entrepreneur and owner of BrickSimple LLC, a software development studio. Det has provided technology business analysis and commentary for Bloomberg Television, BusinessWeek, MIT Technology Review, Talking Points Memo, and MTV. His company’s work has also been featured on Engadget, Joystiq, TechCrunch, VentureBeat, ArsTechnica, Geek.com, GigaOM, MTV, NBC news, Reuters, Rolling Stone, and the BBC.Connect with Det:Website bricksimple.com This episode is brought to you by Verify Protect, Fast, Accurate, and Secure Background Checks. Go to VerifyProtect.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Prepare to unlock the secrets of successfully adapting to rapid changes in our personal and professional lives. Inspired by the unforgettable "pivot" scene from Friends and the recent passing of Matthew Perry, we explore the art of pivoting. We reflect on the necessity of staying flexible amidst global shifts and the relentless pace of advancements in AI, setting the stage for a deeper discussion on how to navigate these constant changes.Vikram Ashok, the founder of Graphite, shares his incredible journey from a childhood fascination with marketplaces to creating a groundbreaking on-demand talent platform. Learn about the highs and lows of his entrepreneurial path, the valuable lessons he gleaned from launching and scaling Graphite, and the critical role of adaptability in achieving business success. Vik’s insights on pivoting and embracing change offer a compelling look into the future of work.We then dive into the evolving landscape of the workforce, spotlighting the rise of the gig economy and freelance work. By 2027, more than half of the workforce is expected to freelance, reshaping how companies engage with talent. We discuss why freelancers should be seen as experts and how the pandemic has accelerated the acceptance of remote work.About Vikram Ashok:Vik is the Founder and CEO of Graphite, a technology platform enabling seamless access to the world's best independent talent. Graphite connects Fortune 1000 companies, professional services firms and investment firms with a pool of ~9,000+ independent consultants for on-demand work. Forward-thinking organizations partner with Graphite to operate with more agility by accessing critical skills and expertise in real-time, alleviating bandwidth constraints on their teams and innovating faster. Independent consultants turn to Graphite to access challenging and rewarding work and accelerate the growth of their businesses.Prior to founding Graphite, Vik was a private equity investor at Quilvest Capital Partners, a multi-family office with $36B under management. Vik holds a B.S. in Applied Mathematics from Columbia University.Vik resides in Oakland CA with his wife. Outside of work, Vik enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing guitar, traveling to national parks and exploring the natural beauty of the Bay Area.graphite.com linkedin.com/company/graphitesolutionsThis episode is brought to you by Graphite; the most flexible, right-sized approach to getting work done. Go to graphite.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Navigating the perils of complacency, we confront the silent threats that lurk in the shadows of success both on a personal and professional level. Our conversation takes a personal turn as Marc recounts a health scare, which serves as a cautionary tale reminding us all to never take our well-being for granted. Together with insights from our insightful guest Rado Kotorov, and a special appearance by Dr. Stephen Hess, we illustrate the importance of recognizing the winds of change before they become storms, emphasizing the need for swift action and the dangers of passivity.The odyssey through the landscape of data technologies is as riveting as it is enlightening, tracing my own unexpected journey from philosophy student to tech innovator. We unravel the threads of serendipity that led Rado to programming, and the profound impact of mentorship and ethical leadership during his time at Information Builders. As he recounts the birth of Trendalyze and later, StoryData, we peel back the layers of complexity in understanding and communicating with the digital world, underscoring their vision to tame the information overload that defines today's business environment.As we venture into the realm of data presentation, we explore the seismic shifts from paper to pixels, charting how generational preferences are molding the future of information consumption. We reflect on how businesses, big and small, are grappling with this transformation, noting the agility of startups in contrast to the cautious recalibration of established corporations. Rado highlights the empowerment that comes from accessible data, sparking innovation across journalism, government, and free enterprise.About Rado:Rado Kotorov is the Co-Founder and CEO of Storied Data Inc. and author of the book "Organizational Intelligence: How Smart Companies Use Information to Become More Competitive and Profitable."  He is an inventor, entrepreneur, and philosopher. Studied everything -- law, economics, design, tailoring, game theory. He has worked in start ups and big international companies. He was never hired for a particular job, but to create something new. He has written two books, many peer-reviewed articles, loves photography and cycling, and is a true road-warrior - travels 150 miles per year.Website storieddata.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/radokotorov This episode is brought to you by Center City Dermatology; Comprehensive, Contemporary & Customized Skin Care. Go to centercitydermatology.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Embark on an insightful expedition into the world of virtual work with us, as we debate the resurgence of traditional office environments against the backdrop of our post-pandemic reality. Crowded parking lots and lively city centers are painting a familiar picture, but is the in-person collaboration worth sacrificing the flexibility so many have grown accustomed to? We wrestle with this question, bringing personal tales to the forefront, including a family member's leap to a virtual law firm, and examine the impact of remote work across various industries, particularly in real estate.Pam Butera joins the conversation to share her transformative journey with virtual assistants, and how this strategic shift has revolutionized the real estate sector. From her initial doubts to the establishment of a seamless virtual workforce, we uncover the role of technology and specialized assessments in perfecting the VA-client dynamic. The episode peels back the layers on the recruitment process and the undeniable benefits of cross-continental collaboration, providing listeners with a blueprint for integrating virtual assistance into their own business models.We then step into the control room of a successful VA team, revealing what makes the engine hum. Pam's vision for her company, Cyberbacker, and the real estate industry takes center stage as she outlines her blueprint for expansion and the hurdles of solo entrepreneurship. From the pages of her current read to the cherished wisdom of past favorites, Pam imparts a gem of guidance for the eager minds shaping the future of business.About Pam Butera:Pam Butera bought the Greater Philly Cyberbacker Franchise, a Virtual Admin Company, in 2021. When the opportunity was presented, Pam jumped on it. Pam has been running her own Residential Real Estate team completely virtual and has had a fantastic experience working with VA's. Now, they have 125 clients in the Greater Philly Area and are growing every day!Connect with Pam:Website virtualleveragesolutions.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/pamela-butera-ba468a5 Instagram instagram.com/greaterphillycyberbacker Facebook facebook.com/greaterphillycyberbacker This episode is brought to you by Cyberbacker, your own personal assistant for a fraction of the cost!  Go to VirtualLeverageSolutions.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Discover the transformative power of food on health and happiness as we sit down with David Kirschner, the culinary mind behind DK Private Dining. A recent juice fast epiphany sets the table for a mouthwatering conversation about mindful eating. We feast on the stark differences between our own oftentimes mindless munching and the deliberate dining of our European neighbors. David stirs in his seasoned insights on how food serves as the foundation of personal health, caring for others, and sustaining our planet. His passion for crafting bespoke dining experiences is just the appetizer in this rich discussion on the intersection of nutrition and well-being.Ever wonder how an athlete flips the script to become a Michelin-star chef? We track the remarkable journey of a former sportsman whose discipline in the field translates to artistry in the kitchen. From cramming for college exams to commanding the heat of Per Se's culinary battleground, we uncover the challenges and victories of starting DineDK from scratch. With no formal training but a playbook of strategies, David recounts networking with the "gatekeepers" of the culinary world and creating opportunities for fellow chefs within the gig economy. His playbook is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit in the high-stakes world of gastronomy.The episode culminates with a masterclass in curating a roster of exceptional chefs for unforgettable private events. David shares his recipe for success: a blend of Michelin-star expertise with a dash of charisma, all garnished with top-notch communication skills. We go behind the scenes to learn how Dine DK Private Dining whisks together a community for chefs eager to trade the traditional kitchen line for the spotlight of personal chefdom. By implementing effective systems and fostering a dynamic team, David showcases how to juggle a high turnover of events with finesse and fire.About David:David Kirschner's culinary journey spans over two decades, marked by prestigious roles in renowned kitchens. From the esteemed 3 Michelin-starred Per Se to the kitchens of Michael Mina and Daniel Boulud, he has built a wealth of experience under our country's best chefs. In 2015, David founded dineDK Private Dining, a boutique private dining company known for its custom culinary experiences and private chef placement services.dinedk.cominstagram.com/dinedk This episode is brought to you by CamaPlan, A Different Way to Invest. Go to camaplan.com/foundersforum to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Winter's chill invites a season of reflection and rejuvenation. Bruer Kershner unpacks the 'winter pause,' a time where personal and professional growth take center stage, allowing us to realign our life's compass. Bruer's expertise in the office furniture industry underpins a conversation about the strength found in relationships and the importance of a socially responsible business ethos. Adaptability is a cornerstone of success, we open up about the financial tightropes walked over 22 years of entrepreneurship. We explore the evolution of office spaces and the heart of being client-focused, even amidst economic uncertainties. The sharing of strategies and support systems, are underscored as essential for weathering market changes and fueling growth.We conclude by diving into the power of education, both formal and through the 'school of life.' Bruer's journey exemplifies that success is not a one-size-fits-all formula, and community service can be as enriching as traditional academic pursuits.About Bruer:The Kershner name has been a brand name in the office furniture business for more than 60 years, and it came as no surprise in 2002, when Bruer Kershner embarked on an entrepreneurial journey with a vision to take office furniture and workplace design into the future. It’s in his bloodline. As Founder and CEO of Kershner Office Furniture, and a firm believer in the power of relationships, Bruer has fostered a customer-focused philosophy by understanding the unique needs of clients and delivering personalized workplace solutions. Whether navigating market fluctuations, or cultivating a resilient company culture, he and his leadership team has been the driving force behind Kershner’s ability to not just survive but thrive. But Bruer is more than a businessman, he has an authentic commitment to social responsibility and continues to be actively engaged in the community, supporting local and international initiatives, and participating in charitable ventures that support organizations in the Philly area. kershneroffice.com linkedin.com/in/bruerkershner linkedin.com/company/kershner-office-furniture-inc- instagram.com/kershnerofficefurniture facebook.com/kershneroffice This episode is brought to you by Kershner Office Furniture, Workplace Furniture Solutions.  Go to kershneroffice.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Strap in for a whirlwind tour of entrepreneurial finance with special guests Ami Kassar and Lynn Ozer from MultiFunding. We're peeling back the layers of the economy, finding the hidden truths behind the data, and grappling with the real-world problems entrepreneurs face from supply chain nightmares to pandemic aftershocks. It's not all about the numbers; listen and learn as we dissect the resilience of retail over the holidays and the seemingly insatiable appetite for discretionary spending that defies the odds.But it's not just the economy we're unpacking. Dive into the heart of what makes MultiFunding tick—a beacon of client-centric culture where honesty and integrity are not just buzzwords, but the foundation stones. Lynn's journey from a rigid corporate life to the refreshing embrace of MultiFunding's entrepreneurial vibrancy paints a picture of a company that's more than just loans and interest rates. It's about empowering entrepreneurs, sharing knowledge, and thriving through the ups and downs with the right people and principles at the helm.Ami Kassar, author of The Growth Dilemma, guides entrepreneurs on financing, debt restructuring, and wealth creation. As CEO of MultiFunding, he's a nationally recognized speaker, columnist, and trusted advisor shaping the future of business financing.linkedin.com/in/amikassar instagram.com/akassar18 facebook.com/akassartwitter.com/amikassaryoutube.com/@amisights2495 Lynn Ozer, President of MultiFunding, is a strategic financial executive with expertise in small business lending, SBA loan policies, and advocating for small businesses. She excels in leadership, sales, and relationship-building, consistently exceeding goals. As the first woman to chair the board of NAGGL, Lynn remains committed to advocating for small businesses on a national level.linkedin.com/in/lynn-ozer  twitter.com/sbaqueen This episode is brought to you by MultiFunding Business Loan Advisors, Fund Your Vision, Fuel Growth. Go to MultiFunding.com to learn more.multifunding.comlinkedin.com/company/multifunding-llcinstagram.com/multifunding📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Unleash the potential to leave an indelible mark on the world as we unpack the secrets to impactful entrepreneurship with the insight of Ross Bernstein. In this episode, we delve into the nitty-gritty of what it means to create a legacy that echoes the influence of Jason Kelsey's formidable presence. Feel the vibrations of change as we share experiences that will embolden you to make a splash in your community and beyond, by harnessing the ripple effects of your actions and aligning them with the needs of society. Bernstein brings a seasoned perspective on the silent heroes in sports, reminding us that sometimes the most profound impacts are the ones that go unnoticed.Adapting to the ever-changing business landscape is a challenge relished by the intrepid entrepreneur. In this conversation, we lay bare the trials of rejection in the speaking industry and the necessity of resilience in the face of public scrutiny. We offer a candid look at how the digital revolution and global events such as the pandemic have reshaped the way we connect, drive business, and share ideas. Whether it's through virtual forums or innovative networking opportunities like this podcast, we argue that embracing change isn't just about survival—it's about thriving and setting a course for uncharted success.Setting the groundwork for a legacy that lasts is no small feat, but it's one that can be achieved through thoughtful action and strategic foresight. In this episode, we celebrate personal milestones, while forecasting the evolution of work-life balance and communication in the coming decade. As president of the Herb Brooks Foundation, Marc shares how philanthropy intertwines with the concept of legacy, leaving you with a blueprint for making a difference that resonates through generations.About Ross Bernstein:The best-selling author of nearly 50 sports books, Ross Bernstein is a peak-performance business speaker and proud member of the Speaker Hall of Fame, who has keynoted conferences on all seven continents. Ross and his books have been featured on CNN, CBS Mornings, MSNBC, ESPN, and Fox News, as well as in the Wall Street Journal, New York Times and USA Today.Connect with Ross:Website rossbernstein.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/ross-bernstein-speaker  This episode is brought to you by Verify Protect, Fast, Accurate, and Secure Background Checks. Go to VerifyProtect.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

In our latest episode, we journey alongside individuals who've courageously navigated transformations for alignment with their deepest values and sense of self. Ang, an executive coach with insight into leading with 'who you be' rather than 'what you do,' shares her perspective, while Beau Wangtrakuldee, PhD, founder of AmorSui, narrates her switch from scientist to innovator. Together, our stories emphasize the profound impact of infusing personal core values into professional endeavors, ultimately crafting careers that are not just successful, but deeply fulfilling.Beau Wangtrakuldee's leap from the lab bench to launching a protective wear brand illuminates the path from personal experience to entrepreneurial innovation. Her creation of AmorSui is rooted in a harrowing lab accident, underscoring the acute need for quality safety gear, particularly for women in scientific fields. Beau's narrative is a beacon for those inspired by problem-solving and community impact, reminding us that our pasts can be the catalyst for meaningful business ventures that go beyond profit to protect and empower.As we navigate the universal challenge of finding equilibrium between work and personal life, the episode takes an intimate look at how parenthood redefines our priorities and shapes our business strategies. We discuss the delicate art of delegation and the power of self-belief in surmounting hurdles. Echoing Dan Sullivan's advice, we underscore the significance of harnessing one's unique abilities, serving as a reminder that authenticity and trust in one's self are the cornerstones of not just surviving, but thriving in the entrepreneurial landscape.About Beau Wangtrakuldee, PhD:Beau Wangtrakuldee, Ph.D., is a multifaceted innovator who has taken a technical approach to radically drive global impact in health and safety. As the founder and CEO of AmorSui, the first global protective wear brand for circular personal protective equipment items and subscriptions, she is on a mission to protect the health of people and the planet. Beau led AmorSui to serve over 30,000 global customers and leading R&D institutions such as Harvard, the University of Pennsylvania, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Dupont, and Amgen.Connect with Beau:Website amorsui.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/amorsui Instagram instagram.com/amorsuiclothing This episode is brought to you by Silencer Devices, Radically Better Noise Cancelling Technology.  Go to SilencerDevices.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.

Ever wondered if the audacious tales of tech trailblazers could ignite your entrepreneurial spirit? Listen closely as we sit with Eugene Seagriff and Gary Ricci, the mavericks behind seismic shifts in technology and venture capital. Eugene, a former engineer turned marketer, unveils the narrative of his transformative noise-canceling technology that's poised to revolutionize our sonic space. Gary, with his savvy seed-stage investment acumen, champions the 'seize the day' ethos at the vanguard of market upheaval and progress. Together, they share the rollercoaster of setbacks and victories inherent to the entrepreneur's journey.This episode is more than just stories; it's a treasure trove of hard-earned wisdom. As Eugene articulates the paramount importance of impeccable execution in tech ventures, Gary reflects with sage advice on asset retention and its enduring value. Their insights provide a blueprint for navigating the choppy waters of innovation. We wrap up with a glimpse into the future Eugene's company envisions—one where "silence or devices" is not just a catchy phrase but a real-world possibility. Join us and maybe, just maybe, you'll catch the spark to kindle your big idea.About Eugene Seagriff:Eugene Seagriff is an engineer turned product marketer who has helped deliver over $22 billion in fast, profitable growth for a variety of companies. He is currently the CEO and primary inventor of Silencer Devices' patented Noise Cancelling Technology, which is effective across 10 times the frequency range of the commonly used technology they intend to replace in the market.Connect with Eugene:Website silencerdevices.com LinkedIn linkedin.com/company/silencer-deviceslinkedin.com/in/eugeneseagriff About Gary Ricci:Gary Ricci is the Co-Founder, Co-Managing Member and Investor in Silencer Devices, and part of Accendo Equities, primarily a seed-stage to growth-stage venture capital fund. Investing in top entrepreneurial teams with great concepts and ideas with a need for strategic advisory services and seed capital. The core is creating and leveraging emerging/disruptive technologies and solutions to change existing markets. Connect; Collaborate; Scale.Connect with Gary: LinkedIn linkedin.com/in/gricc This episode is brought to you by Silencer Devices, Radically Better Noise Cancelling Technology.  Go to SilencerDevices.com to learn more.📅 New episodes every Wednesday—hit “Subscribe” now!💬 Love the show? Let us know! Leave a quick rating & review here—your feedback helps us grow!📲 Stay connected with Marc Bernstein: ➡️ Follow on Instagram | LinkedIn | Facebook🎤 Got a success story worth sharing? We’re always looking for visionary founders to feature! Apply here to be a guest on the Founders' Forum Radio Show & Podcast.📩 Join our email list here so you never miss an episode.