The Angel Next Door
Marcia Dawood
The Angel Next Door podcast is a show about how people got started investing in startup companies. Hosted by Marcia Dawood, member of the SEC Small Business Capital Formation Advisory Committee and Chair Emeritus of the board of the Angel Capital Association, the professional organization of angel investors across the US and globally. If you want to see change in the world you have to create it, invest in it or be it! Tune in to hear stories of what angel investing is, who does it and why!
Episodes
Mentioned books

May 9, 2024 • 24min
A Vision for America's Small Businesses
Learn about the world of entrepreneurship and the power of small businesses in the United States.In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood welcomes Congressman Aaron Bean to discuss his fascinating journey to becoming a member of the US House of Representatives. Congressman Bean's story is one of resilience and determination, as he talks about successfully building four small businesses, including a putt-putt golf business and a retail insurance agency, while also serving in various elected positions. As he shares his experiences, Congressman Bean emphasizes the importance of entrepreneurship and the role of government in supporting small businesses, making this episode a must-listen for anyone passionate about fostering entrepreneurship and economic growth.Throughout the conversation, Congressman Bean reflects on his journey from serving as a city commissioner and mayor to being elected to the Florida House of Representatives before becoming a member of the US House of Representatives. He highlights the challenges he faced, the victories he achieved, and the impact of his work on supporting small businesses. The episode dives into the role of government in creating an environment conducive to entrepreneurship, addressing regulations, and providing opportunities for private investors to support innovative ideas. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the intersection of politics and small business, highlighting the importance of engaging with government to foster an entrepreneurial spirit and drive economic progress. Congressman Bean's perspective offers a unique understanding of the legislative process and how it intertwines with the entrepreneurial landscape, making this episode essential listening for those interested in the future of small business and economic policies in the United States. To get the latest from Congressman Bean, you can follow him below!https://bean.house.gov/https://aaronbean.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.com And 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

May 2, 2024 • 23min
Using Philanthropic Capital to invest in For-profit Companies
How can philanthropic capital be used to drive investments in for-profit companies, particularly those led by underrepresented founders?In the latest episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, hosts Marcia Dawood are joined by Patrice and Leah Brickman, founders of Inspire Access, a 501(c)(3) organization aiming to mobilize philanthropic capital to support underrepresented founders in the entrepreneurial space. The episode dives into the experiences and insights of Patrice and Leah, who discuss the impact of investment capital on businesses, particularly those led by women and people of color, and how Inspire Access is pioneering a new approach to redirecting donor-advised funds toward mission-aligned investments, ultimately bridging the investment gap for underrepresented entrepreneurs.As Patrice and Leah share their expertise and experiences, they offer a compelling case for why redirecting philanthropic capital to support for-profit companies led by underrepresented founders is a crucial step in empowering and uplifting these entrepreneurs. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in impact investing, philanthropy, and promoting diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship, as it offers a roadmap for driving positive change through strategic and purpose-driven investments. To get the latest from Patrice and Leah Brickman, you can follow them below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrice-brickman-2b46637b/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leah-brickman/https://www.inspireaccess.org Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.com And 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

Apr 25, 2024 • 28min
Crowdfunding for the Main Street
Tune in to the latest episode of The Angel Next Door podcast as host Marcia Dawood sits down with George Cook, co-founder of Honeycomb Credit. George shares how the platform is revolutionizing crowdfunding for small businesses, addressing the challenges faced in accessing capital from traditional lenders. This insightful episode offers a compelling look at the impact of investment crowdfunding with microloans on Main Street entrepreneurs and its potential to shape the future of business financing. If you're interested in learning about the evolving landscape of small business funding and the role of crowdfunding in supporting local economies, this episode is a must-listen. To get the latest from George Cook, you can follow him below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-cook-honeycomb/https://www.honeycombcredit.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

Apr 18, 2024 • 30min
Thinking Bigger: Elevating Women to Grow and Scale Fundable Companies
How does one pivot from humanitarian work to launching a game-changing business in the luxury camping industry to becoming a Venture Capitalist? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, Marcia sits down with Sarah Dusek, co-founder of Under Canvas and Enygma Ventures, to explore her remarkable journey from non-profit endeavors in Africa to revolutionizing outdoor hospitality to investing in innovative change. Sarah's pathway to success exemplifies the entrepreneurial courage and innovation needed to thrive in today's business climate.This discussion with Sarah isn't just about her transition to an accomplished entrepreneur; it's also about her shift to a venture capitalist with Enygma Ventures, focusing on female-led businesses in Africa. Confronting the fundraising challenges as a woman in business, Sarah now dedicates herself to empowering other female entrepreneurs, sharing lessons gleaned from her own experiences. To get the latest from Sarah Dusek, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahhdusek/https://www.enygmaventures.com/https://www.inc.com/magazine/202311/ben-sherry/how-a-pe-backed-glamping-company-grew-its-valuation-by-5x-in-just-13-months.html 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

Apr 11, 2024 • 31min
The SEC's Role in Empowering Entrepreneurs and Angel Investors
Are you an aspiring entrepreneur looking to navigate the complex world of small business capital formation, aka raising money? In the latest episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood engages in an insightful conversation with Stacey Bowers, Director of the Office of the Advocate for Small Business Capital Formation at the Securities and Exchange Commission. Stacey shares her extensive experience, ranging from working in securities law to representing founders and small businesses in raising capital, eventually leading her back to the SEC in a significant role. The episode goes into the crucial role of the Office of Advocacy in amplifying the voices of small businesses and investors to advance their interests in the capital markets.In a stimulating discussion, Stacey unveils the vital functions of the Office of Advocacy, shedding light on its mission to support small businesses, investors, and underrepresented entities. The office undertakes substantial outreach, collects data, and publishes an annual report that encapsulates the challenges and experiences of small businesses and investors. The episode emphasizes the array of educational resources available, including a glossary to demystify legal jargon and a funding roadmap to guide potential entrepreneurs in their capital-raising endeavors. With an emphasis on promoting awareness and engagement, this episode is a must-listen for both aspiring entrepreneurs and angel investors seeking comprehensive insights into small business capital formation and the vital support available through the SEC's Office of Advocacy. To get the latest from Stacey Bowers, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-bowers-1a65ba/https://www.sec.gov/news/press-release/2024-32024 SEC Small Business Forum 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

Apr 4, 2024 • 22min
Demystifying Family Offices
Are you confident in the way the younger generation is approaching entrepreneurship and investment?In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down for an intriguing conversation with Sal Buscemi, an expert in family offices and investing. Sal shares his journey into the world of investing and demystifies the concept of family offices, shedding light on their unique perspectives and approaches. As the founder of a boutique multi-family office, Sal unveils invaluable insights into the world of family offices, offers advice for early stage investors, and discusses the changing landscape of wealth creation.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to gain a deeper understanding of family offices, early stage investing, and the evolving dynamics of wealth creation. With insightful discussions on strategies for engaging with family offices, navigating investment opportunities, and the long-term vision of wealth preservation, this episode is a compelling resource for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned investors alike. To get the latest from Sal Buscemi, you can follow him below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvatore-buscemi/Sal's book Investing Legacy: How the .001% Invest - https://a.co/d/8BqCmTdhttps://salvatorebuscemi.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

Mar 28, 2024 • 23min
Rethinking Wine: How One Entrepreneur Revolutionized the Market with Archer Roose
Are female entrepreneurs facing different challenges compared to their male counterparts?In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Marian Leitner-Waldman, the founder of Archer Roose, a brand challenging the traditional wine industry by offering premium quality wine in cans. Marian shares her journey of building a successful brand in a predominantly male-dominated industry, her innovative approach to packaging and marketing, and the hurdles she faced as a female founder in the world of entrepreneurship. From her experiences navigating the wine industry to securing partnerships with major players like JetBlue and Elizabeth Banks, her story is an inspiring testament to resilience and the power of disrupting established norms.Marian's entrepreneurial journey began with a passion for building, from founding a nonprofit in high school to working with impactful organizations like the Gates Foundation. Her dedication to fostering social impact led her to challenge the status quo of the wine industry, where she identified a lack of options for consumers who simply wanted a single glass of wine without the snobbery often associated with the traditional wine culture.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of entrepreneurship, social impact, and innovation. Marian's journey serves as an inspiring example of how questioning established norms and pushing through obstacles can lead to transformative changes in traditional industries. Her insights into the challenges faced by female entrepreneurs provide valuable perspectives for both aspiring business owners and investors, offering a compelling narrative of resilience, innovation, and the pursuit of creating positive change. To get the latest from Marian Leitner-Waldman, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianleitner/https://archerroose.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

Mar 21, 2024 • 25min
Prioritizing Health for Business Success: Insights from a Peloton Instructor Turned Entrepreneur
Do you ever think about how our heart's work leads us to our heart's people? In the latest episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood dives into the world of entrepreneurship and the profound impact it can have on our lives. Joining her is the inspiring entrepreneur and wellness advocate, Nicole Meline, who shares her journey from being a Peloton instructor to becoming a successful entrepreneur with her platform, Alter Together.Nicole Meline's captivating storytelling takes listeners through her transformative entrepreneurial journey. From her initial foray into the world of fitness in New York City to ultimately launching her own wellness platform, Nicole's story is a testament to the power of following one's heart's desires. Throughout the episode, she eloquently articulates the fusion of her passion for fitness, her skills in leadership, and her unwavering commitment to wellness, culminating in the creation of Alter Together.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, wellness, or personal growth. Nicole Meline's insights into nurturing one's body and mindset to achieve both wealth and wellness offer thought-provoking perspectives on redefining success. As she discusses the correlation between wealth and wellness, listeners are encouraged to reevaluate their own definitions of success and explore the depth of their personal and professional journeys. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an angel investor, or simply seeking inspiration for personal growth, this episode offers profound wisdom and invaluable insights into the intersection of entrepreneurship and holistic wellbeing. To get the latest from Nicole Meline, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemeline/Ignite 7-day Reset - https://alter.nicolemeline.com/programs/ignite-7-day-reset?cid=3591792&permalink=ignite-day-1-welcomehttps://www.nicolemeline.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.com And 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

Mar 14, 2024 • 30min
Navigating Fundraising in Women's Health Tech
Have you ever wondered what it takes to succeed as an underrepresented founder in the world of entrepreneurship? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood engages in a riveting conversation with guest Alison Greenberg, the co-founder of Ruth Health, a virtual care platform for pregnancy and beyond. Alison shares her journey as an entrepreneur and her mission to revolutionize the healthcare space by making maternity care more accessible and affordable as well as caring for all. She discusses the challenges of raising capital as an underrepresented founder and provides insightful advice for both entrepreneurs and angel investors.Alison discusses her passion for addressing the gaps in maternity care and her entrepreneurial journey in founding Ruth Health. With a focus on developing the doula workforce and embracing telehealth, Ruth Health aims to transform the landscape of birthwork, advocating for the recognition and importance of doulas in improving pregnancy outcomes. Alison's insights into the fundraising journey and the significance of having a clear investment thesis provide valuable perspectives for entrepreneurs and angel investors alike.Tune in to this episode to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by underrepresented founders in healthcare and entrepreneurship, and to learn from Alison's impactful journey of building a mission-driven company. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an angel investor, or simply passionate about making a difference in healthcare, this episode is a must-listen for its inspiring narrative, practical advice, and thought-provoking insights into inclusive capitalism and the impact of innovative healthcare solutions. To get the latest from Alison Greenberg, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/greenbergalison/https://ruthhealth.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.com And 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

Mar 7, 2024 • 26min
Revolutionizing the Venture Capital Landscape with Fabric VC
Are you ready to dive into the world of entrepreneurship and venture capital with an innovative twist? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood chats with the vibrant Laurel Mintz, the Founder and General Partner of Fabric VC. Laurel's journey from a background in law and marketing to becoming a successful entrepreneur and venture capitalist is a captivating testament to her determination and forward-thinking mindset. Her unique perspective and passion for supporting diversity in venture funding sets the stage for an inspiring and informative conversation that sheds light on the power of women in finance and the future of investment.In this engaging episode, Laurel Mintz shares her personal investor journey and the pivotal moment that led her to start a venture capital firm. She discusses the origins of Fabric VC and the mission behind it, emphasizing the importance of weaving together diverse founders with funding. With a commitment to supporting underrepresented entrepreneurs, Laurel discusses the fabric thread count, a second layer of diligence that focuses on companies needing support from a marketing perspective. Her insightful approach to investing and dedication to empowering women in the financial landscape make this a must-listen episode for anyone interested in the intersection of entrepreneurship, diversity, and venture funding. To get the latest from Laurel Mintz, you can follow her below!LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurel-mintz/https://www.fabricvc.com/ Sign up for Marcia's newsletter to receive tips and the latest on Angel Investing!Website: www.marciadawood.com And 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


