The Angel Next Door

What if the true game changer in entrepreneurship isn’t just innovation, but the ability to make bold, strategic asks—even when a “no” seems inevitable? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with communications coach and auctioneer Dia Bondi to explore how asking for what you want can transform a founder’s journey.Dia Bondi, author of Ask Like an Auctioneer, draws on her extensive experience coaching executives and founders, as well as her unique background in live auctioneering, to teach entrepreneurs how to “ask off the menu” and design requests that move the needle. Her deep insights into communication and fundraising are both fresh and empowering.Listeners will discover actionable frameworks for making bigger asks, handling feedback, and setting personal boundaries—insights every founder and investor needs. If you’re looking to improve your pitch, grow your confidence, and make every ask count, this is an episode you don’t want to miss. To get the latest from Dia Bondi, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/dia-bondi/ https://www.diabondi.com/The Transformational Voice Intensive: https://www.diabondi.com/intensivehttps://www.asklikeanauctioneer.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

Tim Maul, a key player at Balerion Space Ventures, sheds light on the future of space investments. He discusses the exhilarating potential of lunar mining, particularly helium-3, for energy production and its applications in quantum computing. Maul emphasizes the shifting landscape of private funding in aerospace, with institutional investors taking a keen interest. He also explores how biotech innovations in zero gravity could revolutionize pharmaceuticals, all while highlighting the strategic importance of space in national defense.

What if the path to entrepreneurial success for women didn’t have to be so lonely—or so uphill? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Melissa Wallace, a marketing veteran whose journey spans a $750 million tech exit, hands-on mentorship, and now, leading the first Femtech venture studio dedicated to female founders.Melissa shares her fascinating career evolution, from the high-octane world of startup acquisitions to co-founding Fierce Foundry, a unique venture studio that partners with women at every step of the startup journey. She explains how this studio model—offering co-founding, expert resources, and founder development—directly addresses the hurdles women face in raising money, scaling, and achieving meaningful exits.This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about gender equity in tech and entrepreneurship. You’ll gain fresh insights into new funding models, innovative support networks, and hear about real-world tools that are empowering more women to launch, grow, and lead successful companies. To get the latest from Melissa Wallace, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissahudsonwallace/https://www.thefiercefoundry.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood 

What happens when the people deciding which startups get funded rethink the rules of who belongs at the table? In this episode, host Marcia welcomes Kate McAndrew, co-founder of the Baukunst fund, who shares her journey from arts student to leading pre-seed venture capitalist with a fresh perspective on building companies.Kate discusses how she’s redefining the early stage investment process—focusing on community, creativity, and making capital accessible for underrepresented founders. She also weighs in on the practical realities of AI, groundbreaking fund models, and the powerful role of networks in startup success.If you’re curious about how the next generation of startups are being launched, and who’s working to open up the investing world for new voices, this conversation is essential listening. To get the latest from Kate McAndrew, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/kateprestonmcandrew/ https://baukunst.co/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

What if the key to unlocking a more inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem lies not just in funding, but in research, mentorship, and global collaboration? On this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Dr. Shakenna Williams, Executive Director of the Center for Women’s Entrepreneurial Leadership at Babson College, to discuss the center’s 25-year evolution and its impactful work supporting women and allies in entrepreneurship.Dr. Williams leads initiatives ranging from student and founder support to global research through Babson’s accelerator and the Diana International Research Institute. She sheds light on how Babson’s blend of mentorship, education, and research is empowering new generations of entrepreneurs while challenging and refining the statistics around women’s access to venture capital.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in building a more inclusive entrepreneurial landscape. You’ll hear practical insights on the importance of research-driven programs, mentorship dos and don’ts, and what’s next for global women’s entrepreneurship—making it essential for founders, investors, and ecosystem builders alike. To get the latest from Dr. Shakenna Williams, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/drshakennawilliams/https://www.babson.edu/womens-leadership-institute/about-us/dr-shakenna-k-williams/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

How do small businesses and entrepreneurs thrive when global policies and economic shifts threaten stability? This episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast explores that question with Congressman Gabe Amo of Rhode Island, whose life story as the son of West African immigrants and career in both state and federal government uniquely position him to address these challenges.Congressman Amo shares his journey from growing up in Rhode Island’s vibrant immigrant and entrepreneurial community to his current work in Congress advocating for small business interests. He discusses the realities faced by local businesses, the impacts of tariffs and policy uncertainty, and the ongoing debates around tax reform and innovation incentives.Tune in for thoughtful insights on the intersection of government, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. Congressman Amo’s perspective and actionable advice make this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about supporting small businesses and driving innovation in ever-changing times. To get the latest from Congressman Amo, you can follow him below!https://amo.house.gov/https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabeamo/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

What does it take for a founder to break new ground in an industry full of barriers and taboos? This episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast features Colette Courtion, CEO and founder of JoyLux, whose personal experience ignited a mission to transform women’s health with innovative, red light therapy solutions for intimate wellness.Colette shares how JoyLux was born from her own postpartum and perimenopausal struggles, leading her to bring a groundbreaking device to market—despite hurdles like FDA delays, social media restrictions, and the lack of investment in women’s healthcare. She reveals what it was like to gain celebrity support from Halle Berry, as well as how the company weathered the pandemic and navigated tough challenges like rising tariffs and scaling internationally.This is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, women’s health, and the power of combining personal passion with resilient leadership. Colette’s story offers relatable lessons on perseverance and the importance of being bold in the pursuit of change.To get the latest from Colette Courtion, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/colettecourtion/ https://joylux.com/  Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

What does it take to carve a space in the entrepreneurial world when you begin feeling like an outsider? Pocket Sun, co-founder of SoGal Ventures, shares her transformative journey from setting up a community for female entrepreneurs to becoming a major player in the venture capital space. In a world where women are often underrepresented and underfunded, Pocket's journey has been anything but conventional, pushing boundaries to ensure women-led companies get the support they deserve.Pocket Sun is a trailblazing entrepreneur and venture capitalist whose work focuses on investing in underrepresented groups to solve often ignored problems. Starting with her first investment via AngelList back in 2015, Pocket has expanded her reach to over 150 companies worldwide, many led by women, across multiple continents. Her ability to foresee potential in underserved market segments and her relentless pursuit of impactful investments has made SoGal Ventures a pivotal force in the startup ecosystem.In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Pocket Sun opens up about her unconventional beginnings, her commitment to diversity, and her mission to invest in category-defining companies. She shares insights on building a global community, navigating cross-border investments, and leading SoGal Ventures to become a brand that signifies innovation and social impact. Whether you're an investor or entrepreneur, or just interested in the dynamics of creating change, this episode is rich with valuable insights and stories that reflect on the power of diversity and the potential for change in the venture capital landscape. To get the latest from Pocket Sun, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/pocketsun/ https://www.sogalventures.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

How does crowdfunding fit into a startup's fundraising strategy? In this intriguing episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood converses with guest Woodie Neiss about how crowdfunding has emerged as a transformative option for entrepreneurs seeking capital. The conversation unveils the ways securities-based crowdfunding is reshaping how new ventures are funded, making investments more accessible to various investors.Woodie Neiss, an experienced entrepreneur and a key advocate for crowdfunding legislation, shares his journey from Wall Street to becoming a pivotal figure in changing securities laws. His efforts have helped launch a thriving crowdfunding industry that offers over $2.8 billion in raised capital to more than 8,000 startups. He is also one of the founders of Crowdfund Capital Advisors (CCA), a crowdfunding advisory, implementation, and education firm.This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in entrepreneurship, providing insights into significant crowdfunding developments and statistics. Woodie discusses how the industry has evolved, highlighting trends in sectors like healthcare and technology, and explaining how crowdfunding complements traditional fundraising strategies. Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or policymaker, this episode offers valuable perspectives on the current and future state of investment crowdfunding. To get the latest from Woodie Neiss, you can follow him below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherwoodneiss/https://crowdfundcapitaladvisors.com/https://a.co/d/f9987We - Investomers: How Customers-Turned-Investors are Shaping the Future of Early-Stage Finance Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood

What does it take to not only start a company but to grow it into something truly impactful, not just once but FIVE times? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we dive into the experiences of Angel Gambino, a remarkable five-time exited entrepreneur. With over 20 years of experience crafting successful ventures and fostering economic equity through entrepreneurship, Angel offers a wealth of knowledge on various aspects of business growth and development..Having achieved success as a founder, co-founder or founding team member of five companies across the US, the UK, and Latin America, she has solidified her reputation as a visionary leader and strategic thinker. Her most recently role is as a fractional chief growth officer, helping start-ups build and grow their companies. Angel Gambino is a formidable force in the world of angel investing and entrepreneurship.Throughout the episode, Angel tells us the fascinating stories behind her ventures, highlighting key insights on fostering growth through strategic partnerships, navigating the emotional roller coaster of exits, and the importance of self-awareness in leadership. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or an experienced investor, Angel's candid reflections and practical tips make this episode a must-listen for anyone seeking to make a positive impact through business. Her journey is not just about success—it's about creating prosperity and joy, making this discussion both inspiring and empowering. To get the latest from Angel Gambino, you can follow her below!https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelgambino/ https://www.angelclub.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.comLearn more about the documentary Show Her the Money: www.showherthemoneymovie.comAnd don't forget to follow us wherever you are!Apple Podcasts: https://pod.link/1586445642.appleSpotify: https://pod.link/1586445642.spotifyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/angel-next-door-podcast/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theangelnextdoorpodcast/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marciadawood