The Angel Next Door

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a groundbreaking idea into a successful startup, especially in the face of seemingly insurmountable challenges? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia Dawood sits down with Tricia Compas-Markman, a civil engineer turned entrepreneur, to explore the uncharted waters of innovative problem-solving and business resilience. Through their engaging discussion, listeners gain an intimate look at the complexities and triumphs of launching a mission-driven venture.With a background in civil engineering from Cal Poly and a passion for providing clean drinking water in disaster zones, Tricia shares her journey from a simple master's thesis to founding DayOne Response—a company dedicated to creating family-sized water treatment devices. Her story is one of visionary thinking, relentless determination, and an unyielding commitment to making a positive impact on vulnerable communities worldwide.In this episode, Marcia and Tricia go deep into the entrepreneurial process, covering topics such as tech transfer, investor engagement, complex sales cycles, and the strategic shifts required for sustainability. Listeners will learn about the importance of intellectual property, the challenges of regulatory approvals, and the intricacies of selling to large organizations and relief agencies. Moreover, Tricia’s pivot to aiding other entrepreneurs through Venturewell showcases the enduring value of lessons learned, even when a startup doesn't survive. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone intrigued by the journey of turning innovative ideas into impactful realities. To get the latest from Tricia Compas-Markman, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tricia-compas-markman-04103239/  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 a successful startup lies not just in its venture's brilliance but in its workplace's inclusivity? In this episode of "The Angel Next Door Podcast," Marcia Dawood invites Gena Cox to explore a crucial aspect that entrepreneurs often overlook amidst the hustle of financial planning and product development—organizational culture. Cox, an organizational psychologist with over 30 years of experience, asserts that the human experience within an organization is foundational to its innovation, customer satisfaction, and overall success.Gena Cox is a distinguished expert in workplace culture, employee engagement, and survey design. Hailing from a diverse background—born in England, raised in the Caribbean, and later relocating to the U.S.—Cox offers a unique perspective on diversity and inclusion. Her recent book, "Leading Inclusion," targets senior business leaders and board directors, helping them foster environments where every employee feels seen, heard, and valued. Cox's insights are informed by both her professional expertise and personal experiences, especially in the wake of social events like the death of Breonna Taylor and George Floyd.In this enlightening episode, Cox talks about the significance of nurturing an inclusive culture right from a startup's inception. She underscores the role of inclusion over sheer diversity, pointing out that everyday experiences and interactions within the workplace shape an organization's culture. Listeners will gain practical guidance on implementing structured hiring processes that align with company values and mitigate biases, ensuring sustainable growth and innovation. It's a must-listen for any entrepreneur, business leader, or angel investor supporting them, aiming to build a successful, meaningful, human-centric organization. To get the latest from Gena Cox, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/genacox/https://genacox.com/Gena's FREE e-book 25 Ways to Help Build a Culture of Respect at Work: https://genacox.com/respectebook/ 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

Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a personal experience into a thriving business? In this inspiring episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we dive into the incredible entrepreneurial journey of Jasmine Jones, a remarkable founder and CEO who channeled her life's experiences and challenges into creating a groundbreaking company. This episode offers invaluable insights for anyone interested in the power of resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven entrepreneurship.Jasmine Jones, the dynamic founder, and CEO of Myya, joins host Marcia Dawood to share her unique journey. From witnessing her father’s real estate investments to selling diamonds at Tiffany’s, Jasmine’s path to entrepreneurship is anything but conventional. A former beauty pageant winner and Miss DC USA, Jasmine leveraged her varied background and life experiences to create Myya, a company dedicated to providing customizable and insurance-billable breast prosthetics for breast cancer survivors. Jasmine's inspiring story was also featured in the documentary Show Her the Money, showcasing her entrepreneurial journey to a global audience.This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration. Jasmine discusses the evolution of Myya, from its humble beginnings as a boutique store to its current status as a scalable telehealth platform serving patients nationwide. Hear firsthand how Jasmine navigated the complexities of fundraising, securing over $2.25 million in venture capital, and why the COVID-19 pandemic was a surprising catalyst for her business growth. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or an angel investor, Jasmine's compelling story offers invaluable lessons on persistence, adaptability, and the importance of aligning business with purpose. This is a must-listen episode for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact through entrepreneurship. To get the latest from Jasmine Jones, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminerjones/https://myya.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

Have you ever wondered what lies behind the meticulous management of your startup’s equity and the unseen challenges of maintaining a clean cap table? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood dives deep into the essential but often overlooked facets of cap table management with industry expert and guest, Colin McCrea. Together, they unravel the complexities that every founder should be aware of and how to navigate the turbulent waters of startup finance.Colin McCrea, a seasoned professional in accounting and finance, shares his journey from working at a CPA firm to becoming a pivotal player at Eqvista, a company specializing in cap table management solutions. With a portfolio boasting roughly 16,000 companies, ranging from startups to pre-IPO giants, Colin brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand experience. As the leader of Eqvista’s valuation team, he's uniquely positioned to offer insights into the intricacies of 409A valuations and the vital importance of maintaining a well-organized cap table.Throughout this episode, listeners will gain a comprehensive understanding of cap table management's role in a startup's success, the pitfalls of equity mismanagement, and the critical need for compliance. Colin and Marcia discuss the essential steps founders must take to protect their equity, maintain investor trust, and enable smooth funding rounds. They also explore the nuances of 409A valuations and essential compliance filings like the 83B election. This is a must-listen episode for any entrepreneur aspiring to build a solid financial foundation for their business, as well as the investors, featuring actionable advice and expert insights that can save both time and money. To get the latest from Colin McCrae, you can follow him below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colin-mccrea-8a50021b7/https://eqvista.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

Have you ever considered how varying attitudes toward AI could shape entrepreneurial opportunities? In this episode of "The Angel Next Door Podcast," host Marcia Dawood engages with Lucy Farey-Jones, a marketing expert and tech enthusiast. Lucy's TED Talk on AI adoption garnered over 2 million views and combines her marketing prowess with a keen interest in consumer behavior to explore the public’s evolving relationship with technology.Lucy discusses her research on AI adoption pre-pandemic and post-vaccine, shedding light on generational differences and shifting attitudes toward technology. She reveals surprising findings, such as Generation Z's skepticism and Baby Boomers' increasing acceptance of AI. Lucy also highlights the significant gender disparities in tech comfort levels and advocates for more diverse voices in AI development to prevent biases. This episode is essential listening for investors, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts alike, as it offers fresh insights into how societal attitudes impact the adoption and future of technology. To get the latest from Lucy Farey-Jones, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucy-farey-jones-74687b1/https://www.registerbydesign.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

Have you ever wondered what it takes to revolutionize an industry and make a significant impact on society? In this thought-provoking episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, we explore the world of entrepreneurship and the potential of innovative technologies to transform the way we invest and participate in private markets.Our guest, Kendrick Nguyen, is the founder of Republic.com, an equity crowdfunding platform that aims to democratize access to private market investing. With a background in law and traditional finance, Kendrick's journey into the world of tech entrepreneurship was sparked by changes in securities laws related to crowdfunding in the United States.In this episode, Kendrick shares his insights on the evolution of equity crowdfunding and its potential to encompass diverse investment options beyond tech companies. He discusses the challenges faced by Republic during its early days, competing with established platforms, and the importance of building a strong company-customer relationship. Kendrick and Marcia also discuss the transparency and communication between companies and investors on the Republic platform, emphasizing the wealth of information available for assessment. Additionally, he explores the potential of blockchain technology in fractionalizing assets, lowering participation costs, and providing an effective tool for educating new investors. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of investing, the impact of technology on private markets, and the inspiring journey of a visionary entrepreneur who is reshaping the landscape of accessibility and opportunity. To get the latest from Kendrick, you can follow him below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kendrick-nguyen-7145bb5/Republic.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 if investing in groundbreaking startups was as easy and engaging as scrolling through Instagram? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood talks with Cheryl Kellond, a seasoned entrepreneur and innovator, about Play Money, her cutting-edge platform that streamlines angel investing for both investors and founders.Cheryl Kellond brings a wealth of experience, having launched three venture-backed startups, including a top-rated fitness wearable on Amazon and a healthcare fintech. Now, she’s channeling her expertise into Play Money, making it simpler for accredited investors to discover and fund promising new companies.Discover why Play Money is revolutionizing the angel investing landscape by making the process more efficient and less daunting. Cheryl shares insights on building a diversified portfolio and how Play Money aims to facilitate connections between the right investors and startups. Whether you're new to investing or a seasoned pro, this episode is a must-listen for its innovative take on simplifying and democratizing early-stage investments. To get the latest from Cheryl Kellond, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/c2kprofile/https://letsplaymoney.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

Have you ever wondered what it takes to transition from a successful corporate career to a vibrant role in the world of angel investing and entrepreneurship? In this episode of "The Angel Next Door Podcast," we look into the captivating journey of Amy Jacobs, who took the bold step to leave the world of corporate banking and immerse herself in the dynamic environment of first, nonprofit organizations and now start-ups. Her story is both inspiring and a testament to the power of following one's passion and continuous learning.Amy Jacobs is no stranger to change. Growing up in the suburbs of Cleveland, Ohio, she journeyed south post-college to Charlotte, where she embarked on a notable career in corporate banking with giants like Bank of America and Ally Bank. However, driven by a yearning to explore new avenues, Amy shifted her focus to the nonprofit sector, taking on pivotal roles within organizations such as the Women's Impact Fund and Share Charlotte. Her dedication eventually led her to the role of Executive Director at Share Charlotte, where she played an instrumental part in linking nonprofits with the wider community through innovative tech solutions. Now, as a relatively new angel investor, she offers her unique insights and experience.Host Marcia Dawood explores Amy's professional evolution, from her tech and nonprofit ventures to her recent foray into angel investing. Amy shares her strategies for navigating the startup landscape, the importance of networking, and the crucial role of understanding both philanthropic and investment communities. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs and potential angel investors alike, offering valuable lessons on risk-taking, community impact, and the boundless opportunities in the startup world. To get the latest from Amy Jacobs, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-jacobs-aa01a920/ 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

Did you know there are tax advantages Congress put in place to spur entrepreneurship and investing in early-stage companies? In today's episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Jeff Solomon, a seasoned CPA with over 35 years of experience, to unearth some of the most critical tax strategies that can significantly impact founders and angel investors alike. As they dive into the complexities of U.S. tax codes, they uncover and simplify valuable insights that can help maximize returns and minimize financial pitfalls for those investing in small, high-growth businesses.Jeff Solomon, a partner at Katz, Nannis and Solomon in Boston, specializes in working with tech-based and life science companies, including numerous angel and VC-backed startups. His firm, which boasts a team of 75 professionals, provides a comprehensive suite of accounting, auditing, and tax services aimed at helping fast-growth companies navigate the financial landscape. With decades of experience in advising entrepreneurs and investors, Jeff brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on leveraging tax codes to benefit early-stage investments.This episode is a treasure trove for anyone involved in angel investing or looking to understand the financial intricacies of high-growth startups. Marcia and Jeff discuss essential topics like Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBs), the critical 1202 tax exemption that can make $10 million in gains tax-free, and the nuances of the R&D tax credit. They also explore lesser-known strategies like the 1244 code for handling investment losses and the 1045 rollover to maintain tax advantages. Whether you're an experienced investor or just getting started, these actionable insights are pivotal in shaping successful investment portfolios. Don't miss out on this must-listen episode that demystifies complex tax strategies and offers practical tips for optimizing your investments. To get the latest from Jeff Solomon, you can follow him below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffreysolomon1/https://www.knscpa.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

Have you ever wondered how your relationship with money can impact your ability to invest in the causes and companies you believe in? In this thought-provoking episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood explores the intersection of personal finance, values, and entrepreneurship with guest Sarah Charles, a veteran of the financial services industry.Sarah Charles brings nearly 25 years of experience to the conversation, having worked with high net worth individuals and families in traditional wealth management before starting her own advice-only planning firm, Sanctuary Financial Planning. Her unique approach to financial advice focuses on transparency, accessibility, and aligning resources with personal values.Throughout the episode, Marcia and Sarah discuss the importance of having a financial plan that not only accounts for personal goals and risk tolerance but also allows for purposeful investing in line with one's values. They discuss the potential for angel investing to generate both financial returns and emotional fulfillment by supporting causes, founders, and world-changing ideas that resonate with the investor. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in exploring how to navigate the world of investing while staying true to their values and making a positive impact on the entrepreneurial landscape. To get the latest from Sarah Charles, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-k-charles/ 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