William & Mary Entrepreneurial Thinkers: Recent Episodes
Miller Entrepreneurship Center
Get a glimpse into the minds of some incredible founders who have leveraged entrepreneurial thinking in their professional journeys and everyday lives.
In this "Grit" episode, we welcome back Mike Descher, founder of MediaGroup and mentor at William and Mary. With a career starting in the retail garment industry and evolving through significant roles at tech giants like Apple and Adobe, Mike brings a wealth of experience in embracing risk and demonstrating grit. Listen as Mike delves into the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and continuous learning in entrepreneurship. Gain practical insights and inspiration from his journey of overcoming challenges and fostering growth in various industries.
On the William & Mary Entrepreneurial Thinkers podcast, we believe that Entrepreneurial Thinking isn’t just for start-ups, but it’s a mindset and a learnable set of skills that can be leveraged by anyone, anywhere.
Join us for an inspiring episode of "W&M Entrepreneurial Thinkers" with Tessa Hall Duquette, the creative force behind Tessa Hall Designs. Tessa electrifies the VA Beach community with her vibrant murals and brings her passion for art and creativity into every project. In this episode, Tessa shares her journey, exploring the importance of grit in her entrepreneurial path. Discover how she balances her artistic vision with perseverance, turning challenges into opportunities, and making a lasting impact on her community through her art. Tune in for practical insights and inspiration from Tessa's experience.On the William & Mary Entrepreneurial Thinkers podcast, we believe that Entrepreneurial Thinking isn’t just for start-ups, but it’s a mindset and a learnable set of skills that can be leveraged by anyone, anywhere.
Join us for an insightful episode of "W&M Entrepreneurial Thinkers" with Mike Descher, founder of MediaGroup and a seasoned entrepreneur. Mike's diverse career spans retail, digital imaging, and key roles at Apple, Adobe, and Logitech. Now, as a mentor at William and Mary, Mike shares his expertise in entrepreneurship, focusing on the theme of grit. Discover how his passion for learning, resilience, and willingness to take risks have shaped his journey and provided valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs.
On the William & Mary Entrepreneurial Thinkers podcast, we believe that Entrepreneurial Thinking isn’t just for start-ups, but it’s a mindset and a learnable set of skills that can be leveraged by anyone, anywhere.
Join us for an inspiring episode of "W&M Entrepreneurial Thinkers" with Luvenia Hankins, affectionately known as "Luv." As the founder and CEO of Culture Vegan Joint (CLTRE VGN JNT) in VA Beach, Luv has transformed her passion for plant-based cuisine into a vibrant culinary haven. In this "Openness to Risk" episode, she shares her journey of embracing risk to create a unique business that celebrates diverse cultural influences while fostering community connection. Tune in to learn how Luv navigates the intersection of food, culture, and entrepreneurship.On the William & Mary Entrepreneurial Thinkers podcast, we believe that Entrepreneurial Thinking isn’t just for start-ups, but it’s a mindset and a learnable set of skills that can be leveraged by anyone, anywhere.
Join us for an engaging episode of "W&M Entrepreneurial Thinkers" featuring Rebecca Scheetz, CEO of The 25th Hour. Rebecca is an operations expert dedicated to helping entrepreneurs gain clarity and direction through strategic planning, operational efficiency, and team leadership. She highlights the importance of leveraging time and resources effectively, emphasizing that leaders shouldn't try to do it all alone. In this "Failing Wisely" episode, Rebecca shares valuable lessons on optimizing operations and navigating setbacks. Tune in to learn how to harness the power of effective operations management. On the William & Mary Entrepreneurial Thinkers podcast, we believe that Entrepreneurial Thinking isn’t just for start-ups, but it’s a mindset and a learnable set of skills that can be leveraged by anyone, anywhere.
In this episode of "W&M Entrepreneurial Thinkers," we explore the theme of "Openness to Risk" with Brian Forrester and Tom Powell from Genie Jar Digital.
Openness to risk is vital for entrepreneurial growth, fostering innovation by embracing uncertainty. We discuss how Brian and Tom's willingness to take calculated risks has driven their success in the marketing world.
Brian Forrester, co-founder of Genie Jar Digital, is known for simplifying marketing through storytelling. He teaches at Old Dominion University and organizes the 757 Executive Luncheon. Tom Powell, co-founder of Genie Jar Digital and founder of The Addison Group, has been a leader in marketing innovation since 1996.
Tune in to hear practical insights and behind-the-scenes stories of their entrepreneurial journeys.On the William & Mary Entrepreneurial Thinkers podcast, we believe that Entrepreneurial Thinking isn’t just for start-ups, but it’s a mindset and a learnable set of skills that can be leveraged by anyone, anywhere.
Join us for an inspiring episode of "W&M Entrepreneurial Thinkers" with Seth Caddell, co-owner of Coastal Fermentory in Newport News. Seth, also a General Manager at Coastal and a teacher in the Beer Brewer Professional Program at the University of Richmond, shares his journey from homebrewing in a garage to running a successful brewery. Despite opening during the COVID-19 pandemic, Coastal Fermentory has achieved impressive growth and raised over $40,000 for local and national non-profits. Known for their hazy IPAs and innovative beer recipes, Coastal Fermentory exemplifies the blend of passion, innovation, and community impact. In this episode, we explore the concept of "Failing Wisely" and how Seth's experiences offer valuable lessons in navigating the entrepreneurial landscape. Tune in to discover the keys to balancing success and setbacks in the world of craft brewing.
On the William & Mary Entrepreneurial Thinkers podcast, we believe that Entrepreneurial Thinking isn’t just for start-ups, but it’s a mindset and a learnable set of skills that can be leveraged by anyone, anywhere.
Alison Bruhn and Delia Folk (Marketing '14), the mother-daughter team that founded The Style That Binds Us, a fashion and lifestyle brand which includes a YouTube channel, blog, podcast, consulting and style services, & more discuss how they have leveraged entrepreneurial thinking in their professional journeys and everyday lives.
On the William & Mary Entrepreneurial Thinkers podcast from the Miller Entrepreneurship Center, we believe that Entrepreneurial Thinking isn’t just for start ups, but it’s a mindset and a learnable set of skills that can be leveraged by anyone, anywhere. To check in, fill out the podcast questions here: https://millerec.typeform.com/to/I00xRYIA?typeform-source=www.google.com
To kick off season 3, we welcome Neil McLean of Navattic! Neil discusses his entrepreneurial journey as it relates to Opportunity Discovery, which is "seeing opportunities where others do not."
On the William & Mary Entrepreneurial Thinkers podcast from the Miller Entrepreneurship Center, we believe that Entrepreneurial Thinking isn’t just for start ups, but it’s a mindset and a learnable set of skills that can be leveraged by anyone, anywhere. To check in, fill out the podcast questions here: https://millerec.typeform.com/to/I00xRYIA?typeform-source=www.google.com
Check out the first installment of Day One, the new podcast from the Miller Entrepreneurship Center that delves into a day-in-the-life of alumni founders! In this episode, Francisco Enriquez - founder of Glasshouse Policy and Stanford MBA candidate - talks industrial coffeemakers, morning routines, and tolerating ambiguity as your path unfolds. To check in, get game points, and provide feedback, please take 90 seconds to fill out this form: https://millerec.typeform.com/to/irf5KH.
“I had incredible power, and I just didn’t realize it.”
Check out our conversation with three generations of female founders. Dorian Baroni (WomenAgentsofChange), Nicole Lynn Lewis (Generation Hope), and Samantha Boateng (Read2Lead) join us for our final episode of Season 2 to talk about a typical day in their lives, an inclusive definition of power, and what drives their entrepreneurship. To check in and leave feedback, please take 90 seconds to fill out this form: https://millerec.typeform.com/to/irf5KH
"If we’re not gonna get tons of cash thrown at us, we have to help each other." In this episode, Morgan Berman talks Philadelphia, collaboration in entrepreneurship, and her day-to-day life as the founder of MilkCrate. Check this episode out if you are from the Philly area or if you just want to hear an honest perspective on working through these times and engaging with the community!
“That’s what the Skyboy Games thing is… it’s an expression of myself.” This week, hear from Robbie Dieterich on his "side-hustle" entrepreneurial venture, - Skyboy Games! As Robbie takes us through a day in his life, one thing is clear - entrepreneurship can look a lot of different ways. Hear Robbie's story and approach through his own vibrant take on game design, creativity, and giving back in meaningful ways. To check-in, get some game points, and provide feedback, please take 90 seconds to fill out this form:https://millerec.typeform.com/to/irf5KH
In this episode, we welcome Lamar Shambley and Clarissa Delgado! You may remember Clarissa from our first conversation in Season 1 and Lamar from our Fall 2020 kick-off event at the EC... just wait till you hear them together. This conversation is full of love and inspiration for anyone interested in cross-cultural experiences, the power of place, and mentorship as key to education. To check-in, get some game points, and provide feedback, please take 90 seconds to fill out this form:https://millerec.typeform.com/to/irf5KH
Welcome back! To kick off Season 2, we chat with Branden Polk - social worker, innovator, artist, and founder of Arrowhead Advising. Our conversation with Branden grounds us in our values, reminds us of our inherent worth, and of course, mentions the one and only Brene Brown. To check-in, get some game points, and provide feedback, please take 90 seconds to fill out this form: https://millerec.typeform.com/to/irf5KH
In the fourth and final episode of Season 1 (!), Liz Borromeo - founder of Liz Borromeo Dance and MOTUS Dance Company - talks teachers as "celebrities", introduces us to "dreamscapes", and passionately speaks to the regimen and ritual at the core of both dance and entrepreneurship. To check in, get some game points, and provide feedback, please take 90 seconds to fill out this form: https://millerec.typeform.com/to/irf5KH
In this episode, Vincent Vu - founder of Kinis and one of the grittiest entrepreneurs out there - talks the importance of story, "celebrating small wins" as essential to his success and personal growth, and the ins and outs of being a "movement" company. Plus, learn Vincent's take on openness to risk during COVID-19.
In this episode, Clarissa Delgado - founder of Teach for the Philippines and self-proclaimed "management nerd" - talks marveling in our own ignorance, the influence of collectivism and individualism on entrepreneurship, and the importance of mentorship. To check in, get some game points, and provide feedback, please take 90 seconds to fill out this form: https://millerec.typeform.com/to/irf5KH