The Supportedly Podcast: Recent Episodes

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Entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses can find it challenging to get their idea up and running for a variety of reasons. There may be business skills you need to learn, or perhaps an angel investor is required to bring your product or service from idea to reality. Perhaps you are unsure of what to put into your pitch, or maybe you need a great mentor that has the experience and expert knowledge that a young entrepreneur may yet lack.

To wrap up season one of the Supportedly Podcast, we reflect on some of the best advice that our guests have shared in the last 40 episodes. We discuss everything from networking, hiring applicants, creating and delivering pitches, growing your skills, finding a mentor, and so much more.

“It’s such a necessity to get out there and talk about what you’re doing. - Brandon Hall

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Why you should go out of your way to build relationships with other entrepreneurs.
• Why it’s vital to hire applicants based on key metrics instead of likeability.
• Refraining from going down the expected path and thinking about what you should actually do.
• Why you shouldn’t overrun your pitch time and why you should finish with an ask.
• Why knowing your marketplace is essential.
• Pursuing new things to develop and grow your skills.
• Things to consider to find the right mentor.

“You want mentors that will challenge your assumptions.” - Jay Bigelow

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on Apple Podcasts and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Auxbus. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Auxbus.com

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John Austin is the Senior Director of NC IDEA, an organization that helps entrepreneurs and startups reach their full potential through a variety of programs and grants. In 2011, John founded Groundwork Labs, which later became NC IDEA LABS, where he has personally been a mentor to over 200 entrepreneurs. He has held top positions in companies such as Joystick Labs, Numerical Design Ltd., and Division Inc. John has a Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering from Valparaiso University and a Master’s in Computer Science from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

John joins me today to share how the NC IDEA grant process is structured and to describe the grant application best practices. He highlights how entrepreneurs can tackle stage one and stage two forms and explains what entrepreneurs should (and shouldn’t) do in each stage. Here also shares best practices for delivering a pitch and producing a pitch slide deck as well as describes the qualities that he believes entrepreneurs and startups should have.

“The first thing to do is read the instructions, understand what that organization wants to fund, and make sure that you’re in that ballpark.” - John Austin

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How the NC IDEA grant program funds organizations that help startups.
• The criteria for startups to apply for SEED and MICRO grants.
• How to write a first stage grant application.
• How your application is reviewed and what reviewers are looking for.
• Responding to feedback from stage one and preparing your stage two application.
• Preparing your pitch and creating an effective slide deck.
• The three essential qualities startups and entrepreneurs need.
• The things you need to do and not do during the questions segment of your pitch.

Free & Low-Cost Programs at NC IDEA:

• NC IDEA ECOSYSTEM
• NC IDEA SEED
• NC IDEA MICRO
• NC IDEA LABS
• NC IDEA SOAR
• NC IDEA ENGAGE

Connect with John Austin:

• NC IDEA
• Email: info@ncidea.org
• Phone: (919) 941-5600

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on Apple Podcasts and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Auxbus. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Auxbus.com

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Dan Radin is the Founder, Chairman, President, and CEO of Auxbus, an end-to-end platform solution designed to guide audio novices through the planning, production, distribution, and creation of podcasts. His corporate career consists of developing audio technology products for recording studios, musicians, home audio enthusiasts, and video gamers, including working for Alesis, Sennheiser, JBL/Harman, and SteelSeries. Dan has an MBA from Loyola Marymount University and a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Business and Management from Berklee College of Music.

Dan joins me today to share why he started Auxbus and why its podcast creation solution differs from others in the industry. He describes the four stages of podcast creation and reveals the different models for generating an income or building a brand through the production and distribution of a podcast. Dan also shares how high-end audio results are created and highlights the reasons that you or your business might choose content marketing through a podcast over the different marketing mediums that are available.

“It’s a medium you can take anywhere, extend your brand in places that it otherwise couldn’t go, and really share who you are, your values, and your genuine authenticity.” - Dan Radin

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• When Dan decided he wanted to own a business, become an entrepreneur, and start Auxbus.
• Why the Auxbus podcast solution is unique.
• The four stages of creating a podcast, including planning, recording, production, and distribution.
• The different podcast models and how they create an income or support their production.
• Podcasts that build brands through content marketing.
• How to create excellent podcast audio quality.
• Why you might choose to podcast as a content marketing medium.
• What Auxbus offers to businesses interested in getting into podcasting.
• The advice that Dan would give to a new entrepreneur.

Connect with Dan Radin:

• Auxbus
• Dan Radin on LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Auxbus. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Auxbus.com

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Diane Durance is the Director of the UNC Wilmington Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, an organization that provides working space, tools, networking opportunities, and mentorship to entrepreneurs and new venture startups. Diane was previously the President of MiQuest, a company that promotes entrepreneurship through publications and events. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and a Masters of Public Administration from the Southern Methodist University.

Claire Holroyd is the Co-Founder and CEO of Skilly-do, a company that helps parents use their time effectively and help their preschool children learn through play. Claire received the John Hope Franklin Award from the Center for Documentary Studies and has a BA in Public Policy from Duke University. Claire also has an MFA in Photography, Video and Related Media from the School of Visual Arts. Claire’s career includes working for companies such as Qualcomm, the PlayStation Network, and Square Enix.

Diane joins me today to share how the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CIE) connects the university’s resources with entrepreneurs and venture startups. She describes the Mentor Group Program and the coworking space provided by CIE and reveals the upcoming networking and learning events. I also spoke with Claire to learn more about Skilly-do and how CIE helped her start her businesses and connect with expert mentors.

“Our mission is to connect and ignite the regional strengths and the university expertise to create innovation and entrepreneurial solutions.” - Diane Durance

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How the university's resources help Wilmington’s businesses and community entrepreneurs.
• How the university connects startup ventures with local professionals and retired CEOs and entrepreneurs.
• How the Mentor Group Program connects high potential entrepreneurs with mentors.
• The different venture stages that the mentors are looking to engage with.
• The equipment, technology, and Media Team Services that are available in the coworking space and incubator space.
• The networking and learning events held by the UNC Wilmington Center for Innovation.
• Recent events and programs that helped marine fisheries and the creative economy.
• How Skilly-do helps preschool children learn, grow, and have fun.
• How CIE helped Claire develop her venture and connect with the right people.
• The advice that Claire would give to new entrepreneurs.

“They’re going to connect you with the right people - because they know the right people - and they don’t hesitate. If they can help you, they are going to help you.” - Claire Holroyd

Free & Low-Cost Programs at UNC Wilmington Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship:

• Coworking Space
• Incubator Space
• Media Team Services
• Networking Events

Connect with Diane Durance:

• UNC Wilmington Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Connect with Claire Holroyd:

• Skilly-do

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Auxbus. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Auxbus.com

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Jay Bigelow is the Director of Entrepreneurship at the Council for Entrepreneurial Development (CED), an organization that helps entrepreneurs grow a successful business through mentorship, advice, and access to resources and capital. With a vast career in business services and technology businesses, he is known for starting two companies and joining three other venture-backed startups. In his role at CED, he is responsible for building relationships with lending and angel investors as well as strategic partnerships across the country. Jay holds a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Drexel University’s LeBow College of Business and has experience in marketing, strategic planning, and business development.

Anil Chawla is the Founder and CEO of ArchiveSocial, a company that helps businesses maintain long-term archival records of social media content to meet their compliance and legal needs. He is a regular public speaker on the topics related to social media and entrepreneurship. His work has been documented in publications such as Forbes, CNBC, Entrepreneur, and Fast Company. Anil holds a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Jay joins me today to share the programs, mentorship, workshops, and conferences that are provided by the Council for Entrepreneurial Development. He explains how the Connections to Capital program and Venture Mentoring Service helps entrepreneurs and the process they use to vet applicants for the CEO Round Table events. He also shares what you can expect by attending the upcoming Accelerate Series. I also spoke with Anil to learn more about ArchiveSocial and how CED helped him with advice, mentoring, and accountability.

“The research will tell you that mentors will probably make the biggest difference in the success or failure of most entrepreneurs, so finding the right mentors for you and your business is probably the most important thing you can do to be successful.” - Jay Bigelow

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How the Connections to Capital program curates connections between investors and companies.
• How the CED Venture Mentoring Service creates a pre-board with two to four mentors.
• CEO round tables and upcoming CED Conferences.
• What to expect from attending the June Accelerate Series workshop.
• The vetting process for joining the CEO Round Table events.
• The application and screening process for the team-based Venture Mentoring Service.
• How Anil became an entrepreneur and started ArchiveSocial.
• How the Venture Mentoring Service helped Anil as a first-time entrepreneur.
• How accountability drives you to meet your targets.

“This organization would go out of their way to line up high-power, accomplished people to spend time with me. It was kind of unreal, but it was very nice in the beginning to have that.” - Anil Chawla

Free & Low-Cost Programs at the Council for Entrepreneurial Development (CED):

• Connections to Capital
• CED Venture Mentoring Service
• CED Conferences
• Accelerate Series

Connect with Jay Bigelow:

• Council for Entrepreneurial Development (CED)
• What makes a great mentor - blog post
• Jay Bigelow on LinkedIn
• Jay Bigelow on Twitter

Connect with Anil Chawla:

• ArchiveSocial
• Anil Chawla on LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Pepper Landson is the CEO and Co-Founder of Praetego, a business that develops drug candidates for protecting patients with diabetes, patients who receive critical care, and patients who are undergoing surgery. She has held the position of Co-Founder and Principal for Cheval Noir, Vice President of Clinical Operations for NephroGenex, and CEO of Linked Urology Research Network. Pepper has amassed almost 30-years experience within the life sciences and medical research industries. She believes in being a lifelong learner and promotes the benefits of having a mentor and support group when founding a new business.

Joan Siefert Rose is the CEO of LaunchBio, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing support to life science and biotech companies. LaunchBio helps science-based entrepreneurs through mentorship and coworking spaces. Joan is a sought-after conference speaker and has worked as a columnist for Forbes on the topic of entrepreneurial ecosystems. She was responsible for creating the early-stage investor relation and mentorship program for the Council for Entrepreneurial Development in Research, where she held the position of CEO.

Joan joins me today to share how tech-based entrepreneurs and science-based entrepreneurs differ in the position of founding a startup. I also spoke with Pepper to learn her perspective on the importance of science-based entrepreneurs shifting their mindset from “leadership” to “service-ship.” She shares the common misconceptions surrounding entrepreneurship and being a “good leader” and the mistakes and mishaps many science-based entrepreneurs make throughout their journey. She also shares her perspective on work-life balance, self-care, ‘faking it ‘til you make it,’ and imposter syndrome.

“I would like to see those partnerships between science and business form earlier.” - Joan Rose

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• The differences between a science-based entrepreneur and tech-based entrepreneur.
• The common mistakes that new entrepreneurs make when building a company.
• The differences in working within a big company and founding a startup.
• The importance of humility and mentorship as a founder.
• Recognizing that you don't have to do it all yourself.
• Identifying the true meaning of work-life balance for entrepreneurs and startups.
• Pepper’s perspective on “faking it ‘til you make it.”
• Why you need to be willing to learn and have a curiosity mindset.

“You have to accept that you are not going to have all the answers. It doesn’t work that way. All you need to know is where to go next.” - Pepper Landson

Free & Low-Cost Programs at LaunchBio:

• Larger Than Life Science
• Explore Labs: Stem Career Workshop
• Invest In Cures

Connect with Joan Siefert Rose:

• LaunchBio
• Joan Rose on LinkedIn

Connect with Pepper Landson:

• Praetego
• Pepper Landson on LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Joan Siefert Rose is the CEO of LaunchBio, a nonprofit organization that has created an innovation ecosystem to help biotech and life science companies through support, coworking spaces, and mentorship. She is nationally recognized as a leader in building entrepreneurial communities and holding roles such as the CEO of the Council for Entrepreneurial Development in Research. During her time with CED, Joan created an investor relation and mentorship program for early-stage companies. Additionally, she has been a columnist on entrepreneurial ecosystems for Forbes and is a frequent conference speaker.

Pepper Landson is the Co-Founder and CEO of Praetego, a company that is developing drug candidates to protect patients during surgical and critical care. She has worked within the life sciences for almost three decades and greatly enjoys the field of medical research. Her previous roles include being the CEO of Linked Urology Research Network, VP of Clinical Operations for NephroGenex, and Co-Founder and Principal of Cheval Noir. Pepper is a passionate lifelong learner and values rigorous science, process integrity, and authenticity.

Joan joins me today to share how LaunchBio is helping life science and biotech companies through coworking spaces, wet labs, and support programs. She shares the networking opportunities within and outside of the region and how LaunchBio is bringing strategic partners together. I also spoke with Pepper to learn more about how LaunchBio and BioLabs and has helped Praetego make new connections, find new providers, and become more aware of the resources open to entrepreneurs.

“The hope is that there will be a lot of good science that is turning into really advanced technology much more quickly at a much more effective capital price.” – Joan Siefert Rose

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• The coworking spaces provided by LaunchBio.
• How the Larger Than Life Science program provides monthly opportunities for networking.
• The opportunities to connect with experts in different regions.
• How the coworking space is set up, including access to wet labs.
• How the S.T.E.M Career Workshops prepares high school and college students for a career in science and entrepreneurship.
• How the Invest In Cures program brings strategic partners together.
• LaunchBio’s partnership with BioLabs.
• The mission, challenges and therapies that are being developed by Praetego.
• How the coworking lab environment has helped Praetego.
• Pepper’s advice for new science-based entrepreneurs.
• Joan’s advice for science-based entrepreneurs that are just getting started.

“We are so blessed with fantastic people who continue to serve this community in many different ways.” - Pepper Landson

Free & Low-Cost Programs at LaunchBio:

• Larger Than Life Science
• Explore Labs: S.T.E.M. Career Workshops
• Invest In Cures

Connect with Joan Siefert Rose:

• LaunchBio
• Joan Siefert Rose on LinkedIn

Connect with Pepper Landson:

• Praetego
• Pepper Landson on LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Johanna Hagarty is the Founder and Executive Director at Xpand brand. Xpand brand is a company that supports creatives in their pursuit of a successful career as business owners through education, partnerships, and events such as Xpand Fest and the Work of Art Symposium workshops. Johanna holds a bachelor’s degree in Human Services and has experience in program management, events coordination, and social media marketing. She believes many of the recent innovative solutions to large-scale problems were brought to life by creatives.

Johanna joins me today to share the impact creatives make from a global perspective. She shares how her career started and what inspired her to start her own company. She explains how some professions, like accountants, can be considered creative and how an artist can transition to becoming a creative entrepreneur. She also shares her advice on pricing your products and services and some of the most common mistakes she sees new creative entrepreneurs make.

“Artists are some of the most creative, innovative problem-solvers that this entire world has ever seen.” - Johanna Hagarty

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Johanna Hagarty's career journey and her creative projects.
• Why she decided to start Xpand brand and what it sets to do.
• Her definition of a creative entrepreneur and professions that are actually creative.
• Transitioning from artists to entrepreneur.
• Calculating the cost of your talents and when to saying no to clients.
• Her advice to creatives regarding marketing their talents and starting out.
• Common mistakes she often sees creative entrepreneurs make.
• The impact that creative entrepreneurs make on global innovations.
• Why she feels it’s critical to support creative entrepreneurs.

Free & Low-Cost Programs at The Center for Creative Economy:

• Creative Business Coaching
• Event Consulting
• Strategic Marketing Plans
• Work of Art

Connect with Johanna Hagarty:

• Xpand brand
• LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Kevin Clark is the founder and CEO of Point Motion, a company transforming the way the healthcare industry supports the needs of children around the globe through music therapy enrichment software. He is a Berklee College of Music Alumni and a prolific musician. Kevin was named as one of Boston’s Top 25 Under 25 by The Improper Bostonian for his innovative contributions to the digital health and public service sectors. With a bachelor’s degree in film scoring and jazz composition, he is passionate about improving the way the healthcare and education system stimulates, empowers, and educates children - particularly those with special needs.

On today’s bonus episode, Kevin highlights the importance of embracing the creative side of being an entrepreneur. He explains the connection between your creativity and entrepreneurship, the lessons he has learned throughout his journey, and how artistry can affect your journey in starting a business. He also shares valuable tips for those who are looking to start their own company.

“Being an artist is part of being an entrepreneur” - Kevin Clark

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• The doubts Kevin had in running his own business.
• How business enhanced his creativity and passion for the arts.
• Why he decided to backpack travel to India for three weeks.
• How his travel changed his perspective on being an entrepreneur.
• Finding mentors and getting back up after a mistake.
• Programs and resources for creatives wanting to start a business

Resources Mentioned:

• Episode 32: Fueling Creative Entrepreneurship: Turning Passion into Sustainable Business Ventures with Margaret Collins
• The Center for Creative Economy
• SCORE

Connect with Kevin Clark:

• Point Motion

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Margaret Collins is the Executive Director of The Center for Creative Economy or CCE. CCE’s goal is to help promising entrepreneurs accelerate their business ventures through various training and sponsorship programs. She earned her BA in Music Performance at the Wake Forest University and her MA in Arts Administration at the American University. Margaret is also part of the 2006 graduates of Leadership Winston-Salem.

Kevin Clark is the CEO & Founder of Point Motion. Point Motion is a software company that seeks to improve the healthcare space by developing motion capture technologies for health and education programs, primarily for children with special needs. He was named one of Boston’s “Top 25 Under 25” by the Improper Bostonian. Before becoming an entrepreneur, Kevin had a passion for music as evidenced by his BA in Music from Western Connecticut State University and his Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Composition and Film Scoring from Berklee College of Music.

Margaret joins me today to discuss what the Center for Creative Economy is about as well as their recent accelerator program, VELOCITY. She describes the need for creatives in our economy and how VELOCITY can help creative entrepreneurs get a head start. I also spoke with Kevin Clark to learn more about Point Motion, its goals and projects, and how the Center for Creative Economy supported the company’s growth.

“There are amazing things that creatives - when they put their mind to it - can do that also solves problems and create an economy.” - Margaret Collins

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Who Margaret Collins is and her educational and professional background.
• What led Margaret to start The Center for Creative Economy.
• The focus and goals of the CCE and how they plan to achieve them.
• The Velocity Accelerator program and how it works.
• The benefits of going through the Velocity Accelerator program.
• Why focusing on creative entrepreneurship is just as important as focusing on other entrepreneurs.
• Kevin Clark's journey and what led him to start Point Motion.
• Kevin's passion for music and how it influenced his entrepreneurial spirit.
• How Point Motion works and its potential in the healthcare space.
• What it takes for an idea to flourish in any industry.
• How Margaret's team helped Kevin grow Point Motion.

“Margaret and her group, they really looked at what my needs were. They didn't just throw people my way.” - Kevin Clark

Free & Low-Cost Programs at The Center for Creative Economy:

• SWERVE
• VELOCITY

Connect with Margaret Collins:

• The Center for Creative Economy

Connect with Kevin Clark:

• Point Motion

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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James Bance is the Co-Founder of Startup High Country, a company that specializes in helping startup companies and entrepreneurs through mentorship and accelerator programs. James founded his first company in 2000 and has 18-years of experience in technology, investment, solution selling, online marketing platforms, and leadership development. He has an education in Biology and Finance from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Brandon Hall is the Co-Founder and CEO of ChurchLEARN, a software company designed to help churches and other non-profit organizations to better manage, equip, and engage with their volunteers. Known for creating solutions to complex issues, Brandon has a passion for solving problems through technical innovation. He is a serial entrepreneur with a Bachelor’s degree from Appalachian State University.

James joins me today to share how Startup High Country is helping tech startups and entrepreneurs throughout the High Country region. He reveals how the Silicon Hollar social events, Impact Fund, and Velocity Labs are assisting entrepreneurs and what the application process looks like. I also spoke with Brandon to learn more about how Startup High Country has helped ChurchLEARN get started and develop their business.

“The companies that pitch have the opportunity to join, get additional resources, mentorship, and guidance so that they can increase the probability of their venture succeeding.” - James Bance

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• James’s background and how he became a part of Startup High Country.
• What are Silicon Hollar social events?
• How the Impact Fund is supporting the growth of companies throughout the High Country.
• The typical types of companies that Startup High Country work with.
• The resources available at Velocity Labs.
• How to apply for funding and what the screening process looks like.
• How ChruchLEARN is equipping local churches.
• How Brandon first connected with Startup High Country.
• How the Impact Fund and Velocity Labs has helped ChurchLEARN.

“The founders of Startup High Country are just genuinely there to help. Of course, they have some interest in it, but at the same time, they really want to hear what you are working on and give some advice.” - Brandon Hall

Free & Low-Cost Programs at Startup High Country:

• Silicon Hollar
• Impact Fund
• Velocity Labs

Connect with James Bance:

• Startup High Country

Connect with Brandon Hall:

• ChurchLEARN

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Dr. Sarah Glova is the host of RIoT Underground and the Director of Growth & Communications for RIoT, a non-profit organization that is committed to growing the IoT market sector. Sarah is the Founder of Reify Media, an award-winning digital media company. She also taught technical writing for business and engineering students at NC State University and is a published author and international speaker on women in tech, technology in education, women in entrepreneurship, and technology trends. She has an M.S. in Technical Communication and aPh.D. in Instructional Technology from the North Carolina State University.

On today’s episode, Sarah joins me as a co-host to discuss the best pitch practices we saw at the RAP Pitch Night, what startups should be doing, and the pitch practices they need to avoid. We discuss the vital elements that should be included in any start-up’s pitch and share fantastic examples of each component, using hand-picked audio from the RAP Pitch Night. We also discuss some of the common mistakes entrepreneurs make when pitching their idea, product, or company and how you can avoid these mistakes and nail your next pitch.

“It's not always a pitch for investment, sometimes it a pitch for that person that you need.” - Dr. Sarah Glova

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• The fundamental elements to include in a pitch.
• The importance of practicing and being prepared for pitching your product or startup.
• The importance of ‘defining the problem.’
• How to convince the panel that your solution is the right solution to the problem.
• Explaining the value proposition and path to revenue in a pitch.
• How to create traction around the use case for your product.
• Alternatives ways to validate a use case if there are not yet customers.
• The importance of describing your team, their strengths, and how it can help you ‘fill the gaps’ in your team.

“Be prepared. Do not think you can just jump up and give your 60-second pitch.” - Stephanie Kissel

Free & Low-Cost Programs at RIoT:

• RAP (RIoT Accelerator Program)
• RIoT events
• RIoT Ed Courses
• RIoT Pitch Night

Related Content:

• Episode 16: Why Entrepreneurs Need to Adapt to IoT and Emerging Technologies with RIoT Executive Director Tom Snyder
• Episode 26: RPT Capital’s Mark Friedman and Elaine Bolle: Understanding Angel Investing

Connect with Dr. Sarah Glova:

• RIoT
• Reify Media
• Sarah Glova in LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Laura Smailes is the Assistant Director of Ventureprise, UNC Charlotte’s Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center focused on helping startups, early-stage companies, and innovation-based entrepreneurs throughout the Charlotte, NC community. She obtained her Master’s Degree in Communications Studies at UNC Charlotte and, later, formed the cleantech startup, Eco-H2O Innovations LLC, with two engineers. In addition to the work she does with Ventureprise, she serves as the Communications Manager for PitchBreakfast as well as the Community Ambassador for StartCharlotte. Over the past five years in the entrepreneurial community, her passion for using her skills and experience to assist and support entrepreneurs has grown significantly.

Laura joins me today to share her journey into the entrepreneurial community and how Ventureprise helps entrepreneurs through the market research and customer discovery process. She explains the various programs the company offers and how UNC students, as well as Charlotte community entrepreneurs, can get involved with their programs. I also spoke with Ventureprise program participant and founder of GIG CONNECTED, Keith Clithero, to get his insight and perspective on the Ventureprise programs and share his advice to other entrepreneurs considering their programs.

“You may have great research or great innovation, but if nobody wants it, then there’s no reason to go forward. You need to make sure it’s matching a need.” - Laura Smailes

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How Laura got started with Ventureprise.
• How Ventureprise has evolved over the years.
• The various programs they currently offer to UNC students and Charlotte’s entrepreneurial community.
• How Ventureprise helps startups through market research and customer discovery processes.
• What is the Charlotte Venture Challenge?
• How entrepreneurs can get involved in their programs.
• How their programs help entrepreneurs with staying accountable to proving their markets.
• Mistakes Laura has made throughout her entrepreneurial career that turned into a blessing in disguise.

Resources Mentioned:

• PitchBreakfast
• StartCharlotte
• GIG CONNECTED

“Ventureprise is a great program for anyone - at all stages of their company’s maturation process.” - Keith Clithero - Founder, GIG CONNECTED

Connect with Laura Smailes:

• Ventureprise

This episode is sponsored by Spengler Agans Law Firm

When it comes to all aspects of your business - who you work with matters. Spengler Agans Law is Charlotte’s go-to law firm for startup businesses and small to mid-size companies. Spengler Agans specializes in helping entrepreneurs with everything from business formation to key contracts to early-stage funding. Spengler Agans attorneys and associates help clients understand how various strategic business options can increase or reduce risk and how to grow a sustainable company.

Working with a law firm that specializes in providing top legal guidance to startup businesses and entrepreneurial enterprises makes a difference. Learn more about Spengler Agans Law Firm and their services by visiting SpenglerAgansLaw.com

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Michael Diettrich-Chastain is the Founder and CEO of Arc Integrated, a company that offers professional coaching and organizational consulting services. Michael is an expert and consultant in behavioral change and emotional intelligence. He works with business leaders and teams to develop and improve communication, staff retention, productivity, and sales. He is the author of CHANGES - The Busy Professionals Guide to Reducing Stress, Accomplishing Goals and Mastering Adaptability and is a regular contributing writer for publications like Time, Money, Livestrong, and The Washington Post. He has a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from Appalachian State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

Michael joins me today to share his expertise in emotional intelligence (EQ) and how it affects your career or business startup. He reveals why emotional intelligence is essential for business leaders and entrepreneurs and delves into how it can change your hiring process. Michael shares the action steps that can be taken to develop emotional intelligence and explains the four quadrants of EQ. He also shares how EQ can be used to encourage trust in a team, which is vital for business success.

“The process - or the interpersonal dynamics or emotional intelligence of a group - highly influences the success of a product or a business.” - Michael Diettrich-Chastain

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• The basics of emotional intelligence.
• The differences between IQ and EQ and why entrepreneurs should develop their EQ.
• How emotional intelligence will affect your career development or startup.
• Why emotional intelligence is crucial during a pitch.
• The two elements of EQ that affect the hiring process.
• Why you should be concerned about developing your EQ as well as your team’s.
• The steps that you should take to improve your EQ.
• The four quadrants of emotional intelligence.
• Strategies to improve your emotional intelligence.
• The differences between empathy versus sympathy.
• Why communication and delivery are essential to business leaders when talking to their team.
• How to create trust and develop your team through EQ.
• How Michael’s book relates to emotional intelligence.

Resources Mentioned:

• EQ 2.0 Book
• Primal Leadership Book
• EQ Matrix
• Developing EQ Across Life Domains
• The Value of Coaching
• Data around the value of EQ

Connect with Michael Diettrich-Chastain:

• Arc Integrated
• CHANGES - The Busy Professionals Guide to Reducing Stress, Accomplishing Goals and Mastering Adaptability
• Michael Diettrich-Chastain on Instagram
• Michael Diettrich-Chastain on Twitter
• Michael Diettrich-Chastain on LinkedIn
• Michael Diettrich-Chastain on Facebook

Michael is currently giving away a free preview chapter from the book as well as an accompanying workbook, so you can apply what you learn! Download those giveaways here - The Changes Book.

If you'd like the entire book (FOR FREE) and even more free giveaways in the coming months, as well as an opportunity to get your questions answered and be involved with the book launch, you should - Join The Changes Book Launch Team.

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Mark Friedman is the President and Director of RTP Capital, a network of angel investors who offer mentorship to early-stage companies and entrepreneurs. He has held high-level positions in many large companies in the roles of operations and as an investor. Mark has influenced companies in many different sectors including retirement planning, real estate, financial services, and healthcare. He holds a Certified Financial Planner designation and has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Rochester.

Elaine D. Bolle is an Advisor and Board Director for several leading companies and enterprises. She is an active investor who helps young companies with their ventures and sits on the RTP Capital board as well as a member of the board of directors on the Council for Entrepreneurial Development. She is an expert in helping companies that are rapidly changing and have high growth potential.

Mark and Elaine join me today to share the steps that entrepreneurs should take before approaching an angel investor. They explain how partnering with an investor will affect an early-stage startup in terms of ownership and control and share their views on the Shark Tank TV show. Mark stresses the importance of finding useful resources and tools and Elaine reveals the questions that entrepreneurs should ask themselves before attending a pitch event as well as highlights some of the red flags that angel investors are watching for.

“There is a reason that people making investments are called angels. They’re really looking to work with entrepreneurs and help them, in addition to trying to make a good investment and return on investment.” - Mark Friedman

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• The steps that entrepreneurs should make before they go to a fund, network, or angel group.
• Three fundamental questions to ask before you seek funding.
• The implications that tying up with an investor can have on your business.
• The tools, programs, and resources available to entrepreneurs.
• How Shark Tank influences entrepreneurs and investors.
• The pros and cons of the Shark Tank TV show.
• The factors Elaine considers when entrepreneurs approach her.
• The traits and red flags that investors are watching out for.
• Two things that early-stage companies should be prepared for, before pitching to an investor.

“Knowledge is very important and having clear goals and shared expectations is really critical.” - Elaine Bolle

Free & Low-Cost Programs at RTP Capital:

• Early-Stage Investment

Connect with Mark Friedman:

• RTP Capital

Connect with Elaine D. Bolle:

• RTP Capital

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Mark Friedman is the President and Director of RTP Capital, an angel network of accredited investors focused on early-stage investment and mentorship, primarily in the North Carolina region. He has held senior roles with several entrepreneurial businesses including Cutting Edge Information and Affordable Care. He has worked within numerous industries including financial services, dentistry, healthcare, real estate, and retirement planning.

Elaine D. Bolle is an Angel Investor, Board Director and Advisor for leading organizations ranging from start-ups to $750M+ enterprises. She serves on the board for RTP Capital, where she helps early-stage entrepreneurial ventures. She has held business management, strategic marketing and business development roles for numerous companies. She has a BA in French and Spanish and an MBA in International Business and Marketing from the University of Michigan.

Patrick Mateer is the Founder and CEO of Seal the Seasons, a company that supports local farmers through sustainable methods of bringing healthy local food to all. He launched Seal the Seasons in 2015, and the business now serves more than 3,000 grocery locations. Patrick was recognized by Forbes Magazinein 2017 as a 30 under 30 Social Entrepreneur and currently serves the community as a board secretary for the Immigrant and Refugee Community Partnership.

Mark and Elaine join me today to share how RTP Capital invests in entrepreneurs and businesses. They explain what entrepreneurs need to understand when applying for angel investments and reveal how entrepreneurs can apply for investments and the criteria they must meet. They also share how valuable feedback is given to everyone, regardless of whether they acquire an angel investor. I also spoke with Patrick to learn what inspired him to create Seal the Seasons and how RTP Capital helped him build his business.

“We want to be of value to the entrepreneurs. So even if we choose not to invest, we’ll give you very real, honest feedback and help where we can.” – Elaine D. Bolle

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Why Mark and Elaine became involved with RTP Capital.
• The process of RTP Capital uses to give feedback to entrepreneurs seeking financial investments.
• How entrepreneurs can apply for financial investments and the process RTP Capital uses to screen candidates.
• The type of companies RTP Capital typically invest in.
• Patrick’s background and why he created Seal the Seasons.
• What is in the near future for Seal the Seasons.
• How Patrick first connected with RTP Capital.
• The investor and mentorship relationship with RTP Capital.
• The advice that Patrick would give to companies looking for angel investors.
• The one piece of advice that he would give to new entrepreneurs.
• The crucial things to consider when looking for partnerships.
• The differences between a fund and a network.

“I didn’t expect that investors would have that much time to help with things that were not investment related.” - Patrick Mateer

Free & Low-Cost Programs at RTP Capital:

• Early-Stage Investment

Connect with Mark Friedman:

• RTP Capital

Connect with Elaine D. Bolle:

• RTP Capital

Connect with Patrick Mateer:

• Seal the Seasons

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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This week on The Supportedly Podcast, I sat down with Josh Dorfman, CEO of The Collider and James McMahon, CEO of The Climate Service. They help me better understand the programs available to support entrepreneurs at The Collider. Not only did I find out more about the programs, I also discovered a passion for helping startups with new ideas centered around climate change mitigation, adaptation, and resilience. The Collider provides advice and mentoring, knowledge and skills, and space and tools for climate entrepreneurs. I find out the best ways to take advantage of the programs offered at the Collider. We also take time to discuss how Collider members gain access to a global community of climate solution providers.

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Drew Price is the Creator of 10 Billion Emailsand the Head of Life-cycle Marketing at Grammarly. He is an expert within the field of email marketing and has helped companies such as The Home Depot and IGN Entertainment create the direction of their B2C email programs. He has a passion for assisting companies in avoiding email marketing mistakes and finding success through effective design, message, and analytics. Drew has a BA in Advertising from The University of Georgia and ran the university's Red & Black newspaper and radio station.

Drew rejoins me to share how startups and entrepreneurs can start measuring the success of their email campaigns. He explains the KPIs and metrics that marketers should use when evaluating their inbound marketing campaigns and stresses the importance of understanding the difference between click-through rates and click-through on open rates. He reveals common mistakes that businesses make when evaluating their email marketing metrics and and how entrepreneurs can leverage automation with their marketing strategy. He also shares why it’s important to have a consistent theme throughout the different elements of an email campaign and how segmentation and personalization can bring greater success.

“If you’re only evaluating things based on engagement metrics, such as opens, clicks, and unsubscribes, you’re really missing the heart of why we send emails in the first place - which is to support your business.” - Drew Price

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• The true value of email open rates and clickthrough rates for entrepreneurs and marketers.
• The KPIs you should start measuring for your email marketing campaigns.
• The difference between click-through on open rates and regular click-through rates and why one is more useful than the other.
• Examples of KPIs that can be monitored including ultimate conversion rates and AB tests.
• Platforms that are recommended to gain statistical significance for solopreneurs and small teams.
• The role of email design and how to be effective - even with a low-design strategy.
• The common mistakes that startups often make and how to leverage automation.
• The importance of having an authentic and consistent subject line, pre-header, and message.
• Segmenting email lists and personalizing campaigns for different demographics.

Resources Mentioned:

• MailChimp
• Interview: How 250ok is Helping Marketers Optimize Email Performance -Medium

Connect with Drew Price:

• Grammarly
• 10 Billion Emails
• Get special access to Context Over Cadence
• Drew Price on LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Drew Price is the Head of Life-cycle Marketing at Grammarly, an AI-based writing program that helps users create clear, bold, and mistake-free writing. He is the Founder of 10 Billion Emails, a collection of field notes, philosophies, principals, and hard-learned lessons that will help business startups and growth experts build more thoughtful email programs. He has extensive experience in building email systems, messaging, and project management for numerous B2C marketing campaigns.

Drew joins me today to share how businesses and startups can utilize email as part of an inbound marketing strategy. He shares strategies for building effective email campaigns and explains the importance of aligning your business goals with the customer experience in your email messages. He also explains how email marketing helps you build relationships with your customers and shares why inbound marketing ‘best practices’ may not be suitable for every business.

“Email is one of the best if not the best channel for cultivating a direct relationship with your customers.” - Drew Price

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How Drew got started email marketing.
• Why businesses and startups should focus on email to build long term relationships.
• How Home Depot, IGN Entertainment, and Grammarly effectively utilize email marketing.
• How to evaluate a marketing channel and decide how much to invest in it.
• How to develop an empathetic, customer-focused arsenal of emails.
• How Grammarly uses its email channel for marketing Grammarly Insights and adding value for the user.
• The myths around ‘gold standards’ and “best practices” regarding building an email campaign.
• Frequency capping and how often you should send out different types of email.
• How businesses can hurt their relationships by sending out non-customer focused emails.

Connect with Drew Price:

• Grammarly
• 10 Billion Emails
• Get special access to Context Over Cadence
• Drew Price on LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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David Gardner is the Founder and General Partner of Cofounders Capital, an early-stage funding organization dedicated to helping passionate entrepreneurs receive the guidance and funding they need to launch their new venture with success. He is the author of The StartUp Hats, a volunteer coach and advisor, and serial entrepreneur who has served as the founder or co-founder of seven successful companies including PeopleClick and Report2Web. He is passionate about helping the startup ecosystem thrive by supporting first-time entrepreneurs through the fundraising process and build successful businesses.

Jon Hayes is the CEO and Founder of RewardStock.com, a company that helps people plan and book travel, paid for by points and airline miles. Jon is an investment banker on Wall Street turned entrepreneur. He has a Major in Economics from Princeton University, and he has appeared on the ABC TV show Shark Tank, where he secured an investment from billionaire Mark Cuban.

David joins me today to share the story behind creating Cofounders Capital and its mission for helping entrepreneurs understand the process of finding and securing early-stage funding. He reveals how investors fund entrepreneurs and business startups as well as how they help mature an idea into a feasible business. I also spoke with Jon to learn more about RewardStock, how it got started, and his experience of connecting with Cofounders Capital and CoFounderLab.

“Cofounders Capital’s mission is to seek out the best and brightest, most tenacious and passionate entrepreneurs in the Triangle and make sure that they have the guidance and the funding they need to make their venture successful.” - David Gardner

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How Cofounders Capital got started and its mission to help first-time entrepreneurs.
• The types of entrepreneurs that Cofounders Capital and its angel investors work with.
• How the Town of Cary became involved with Cofounders Capital and how they are helping new entrepreneurs start their venture.
• Why he gives new entrepreneurs “homework” when connecting with Cofounders Capital.
• How the CofoundersLab Accelerator program helps new entrepreneurs troubleshoot problems and vet their venture idea.
• The qualification requirements to receive seed funding from Cofounders Capital.
• How entrepreneurs can connect and engage with CoFoundersLab and Cofounders Capital.
• Why entrepreneurs need to understand the early-stage fundraising process.
• What inspired Jon to create RewardStock and how it helps people pay for travel with miles and points.
• Jon’s experience with appearing on Shark Tank.
• How Jon initially connected with Cofounders Capital.
• What it is like to work with Cofounders Capital and a venture capitalist.
• The benefits of joining the CoFoundersLab Accelerator program.

“David is dedicated to helping guys like me, or people like me, start their companies.” - Jon Hayes

Free & Low-Cost Programs at CoFounderLab:

• CoFoundersLab Accelerator

Connect with David Gardner:

• Cofounders Capital
• CoFoundersLab
• Email: david@cofounderscapital.com

Connect with Jon Hayes:

• com

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of theSupportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

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Thom Ruhe is the President of NC IDEA, a North Carolina based private foundation that aids startup ecosystems and entrepreneurs to strengthen and develop their business ideas. NC IDEA offers a variety of free and low-cost programs to entrepreneurs and business owners, such as NC IDEA SEED, NC IDEA ECOSYSTEM, and NC IDEA ENGAGE to help them learn how to take their idea to the next level, raise capital, and find mentorship. Thom is frequently quoted in business publications such as The New York Times, Forbes, and The Wall Street Journal and has worked with several major companies such as Jumpstart Inc and the Kauffman Foundation.

Thom re-joins me on today’s episode to share the role that entrepreneurship plays in the economy and why it is critically important to support entrepreneurs. He shares the lessons he has learned throughout his career and explains the critical role entrepreneurs and their startups play in building and maintaining a healthy economy.

“You can have world peace through entrepreneurship.”- Thom Ruhe

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• The mistakes that Thom wishes he could have avoided and the lessons he learned.
• The secret to good economic development.
• What happens if we don’t support entrepreneurs and the decline of startup activity.
• How the rate of startups and entrepreneurship affects how the economy is rejuvenated.
• The effects of corporate concentration and how 1-in-4 North Carolinians are living with economic uncertainty.
• Why Thom believes we can find world peace through entrepreneurship.

Resources Mentioned:

• 020 NC IDEA: Supporting Entrepreneurs Through Grant Funding, Mentorship, and Programming with President and CEO, Thom Ruhe

Free & Low-Cost Programs at NC IDEA:

• NC IDEA ECOSYSTEM
• NC IDEA SEED
• NC IDEA MICRO
• NC IDEA LABS
• NC IDEA SOAR
• NC IDEA ENGAGE

Connect with Thom Ruhe:

• NC IDEA
• LinkedIn
• Email: info@ncidea.org
• Phone: (919) 941-5600

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Thom Ruhe is the President and CEO of NC IDEA, a private foundation that helps entrepreneurs strengthen, start, and develop their ideas and achieve their full entrepreneurial potential through a variety of programs such as NC IDEA LABS, NC IDEA SEED, and NC IDEA ENGAGE. Prior to working with NC IDEA, Thom worked with companies such as the Kauffman Foundation and Jumpstart Inc, directing programs to address entrepreneurial education, mentoring, raising capital, and fostering the entrepreneurial ecosystem. He is frequently quoted in major media publications including Forbes, The New York Times,and WSJ.

Dipak Mahato is the Founder and CEO of SeaChange Technologies, a company that provides sustainable solutions for wastewater purification. Dipak is a research and development leader with expertise in developing disruptive and innovative technologies. He is an award-winning entrepreneur with a Bachelor of Science degree in Ecology and Evolutionary Biology from the University of California, Irvine.

Thom joins me today to share his journey and how he got involved with NC IDEA. He explains the programs and grants that are available for entrepreneurs and startups and how the programs help entrepreneurs at various stages of their business development journey. He also explains why the organization created NC IDEA SOAR - a program for female entrepreneurs. I also spoke with Dipak to learn what inspired him to start SeaChange Technologies and how vital the NC IDEA programs were for starting and scaling his company.

“It’s a privilege to do the work that we do. The status of a non-profit affords you a great freedom to do things and to take risks in the market that nobody else is incentivized to do.” - Thom Ruhe

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Thom’s transition to working with NC IDEA and the company’s ideology.
• How the NC IDEA ECOSYSTEM grant partner program supports entrepreneurs in North Carolina.
• How the NC IDEA SEED grants help early-stage companies with funding, mentorship, and guidance so that they can scale their companies faster.
• How young companies or entrepreneurs with a concept can be awarded a $10K grant from the NC IDEA MICRO program.
• How the NC IDEA LABS four-week curriculum helps entrepreneurs focus on customer discovery and moving a company forward.
• Why the NC IDEA SOAR program was created for female entrepreneurs.
• The community-focused NC IDEA ENGAGE program that brings like-minded entrepreneurs together.
• The questions entrepreneurs should ask before connecting with NC IDEA.
• What SeaChange Technologies is and what inspired Dipak to start the company.
• How SeaChange Technologies is helping companies deal with contaminated wastewater.
• How he found NC IDEA and what motivated him to participate in the programs.
• How the NC IDEA programs helped SeaChange Technologies and how they became a SEED grant recipient.
• The advice that he would give to a young entrepreneur.

“Be totally open. Trust the process and the people. The folks at NC IDEA know what they are doing. They have seen entrepreneurs fail and succeed. They know what works and what doesn’t work.” - Dipak Mahato

Free & Low-Cost Programs at NC IDEA:

• NC IDEA ECOSYSTEM
• NC IDEA SEED
• NC IDEA MICRO
• NC IDEA LABS
• NC IDEA SOAR
• NC IDEA ENGAGE

Connect with Thom Ruhe:

• NC IDEA
• LinkedIn
• Email: info@ncidea.org
• Phone: (919) 941-5600

Connect with Dipak Mahato:

• SeaChange Technologies
• LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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When you are just starting out as an entrepreneur, finding and connecting with your local startup community can be quite challenging. It can be even more difficult when you’re new to a community - especially without a previous professional connection or familial ties. So, how does an ambitious entrepreneur start building meaningful, long-lasting connections in an unknown environment? How do you begin networking in your startup ecosystem when you’ve just moved to a new area and haven’t yet made friends or connections?

On today’s episode, I spoke with Jeffrey Kaplan, the Director of Venture Asheville; Josh Gershon, the Founder of Startup Island; and Chris Buehler, a Mentor, Advisor, and Board Member of the Hatch AVL Foundation and Meet-the-Geeks. Jeffrey shares a simple yet powerful strategy for breaking the ice at networking events and his process for following up with people after the event has ended. Josh explains the importance of having realistic expectations when attending events and how being authentic, honest, and vulnerable can help entrepreneurs build deeper connections in their startup ecosystem. Chris shares how volunteerism, adding value to the connections and relationships you build, and making a conscious effort to regularly engage with the people in your network and community can lead to powerful, longer-term, and meaningful results in your personal and professional life.

“You can’t go to a networking event expecting to walk away with a business deal. You’re setting yourself up for disappointment.” - Josh Gershon

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How he began building his network and connections in a new environment.
• How asking icebreaker questions can make networking at events easier and less intimidating.
• How he selects individuals to invite to in-person follow up meetings.
• The importance of follow up emails after meeting new people at a networking event.
• How to learn what you should - and should not -wear to business and networking events.
• Jeffrey’s advice for entrepreneurs seeking to get involved in their local startup ecosystem.
• What is Startup Island and how it helps entrepreneurs through personal and professional development.
• The value Josh Buehler found in connecting with the local startup ecosystem.
• The importance of considering not only what you can getfrom a startup ecosystem - but also what you can give.
• Why Josh believes many people feel disappointed after attending a networking event.
• The difference between networking events in larger cities versus smaller communities and what it takes to feel connected in a larger ecosystem.
• Lessons Josh has learned and mistakes he has made while connecting with larger startup communities.
• How being authentic, honest, and vulnerable helps entrepreneurs build deeper connections and meaningful relationships within their local startup ecosystem.
• Josh’s advice on building an ecosystem in your area.
• How Chris Buehler began building his network in a new environment.
• Why finding ways to bring value to the relationships you build is essential for forging long-term, meaningful relationships.
• The importance of setting realistic expectations.
• The importance of making conscious efforts to maintain and regularly engage with your network.
• The benefits associated with volunteering.
• Strategies entrepreneurs can use to connect with their local startup ecosystem after moving to a new community.

“You always follow up with an email. You meet when you have something worth talking about.” - Jeffrey Kaplan

How to Quickly & Effectively Engage with Your Local Startup Ecosystem:

1. Reach out early: Engage with startup ecosystem leaders early. Let them know you’re interested in getting involved even before you’re in town or quite ready to start connecting early.
2. Engage with intention: Understand why you want to engage with the ecosystem and maintain that self-awareness as you engage.
3. Be authentic with a “give first” mentality: Be more prepared to listen, hear stories, and engage with those stories than you are to tell yours, first.
4. Volunteer with support providers and ecosystem organizations: Not only does this allow you to give to the ecosystem, it’s a great way to know a lot of people early on
5. Be consistent: Show up when you are able and engage on a regular basis.
6. No ecosystem, no problem: Create a means for the individuals and organizations in your area to engage. Whether through a Meetup group, starting a 1 Million Cups chapter or other networking group, help lead the charge to creating an active and vibrant startup ecosystem in your area.

Resources Mentioned:

• Episode 008: Connecting Entrepreneurs with Mentors and Investors with Venture Asheville’s Director Jeff Kaplan

Connect with Jeffrey Kaplan:

• Venture Asheville
• Email: JKaplan@VentureAsheville.com

Connect with Josh Gershon:

• Startup Island

Connect with Chris Buehler:

• Hatch AVL Foundation
• Meet-the-Geeks

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Dean Bundschu is the Atlantic Regional Executive for Bunker Labs, a company that inspires, equips, and connects veteran entrepreneurs with other entrepreneurs and mentors. Dean is an army veteran who has helped several high-growth business startups. He is the Founder of PrepChamps, a company that has been recognized as North Carolina’s 2007 Fast Trac Tech Company of the Year. Dean is a distinguished military veteran and has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Ohio Northern University.

Jessica Harris is the is the Founder of K9 Salute, a company that creates all-natural dog treats in honor of fallen service dogs. A retired army veteran, Jessica has developed her entrepreneurial skills and matured a business that gives back to working dogs across the country. She has been featured in the Pet Food Industry magazine, and during 2018 she was named an American Small Business Champion by Sam’s Club and SCORE.

Dean joins me today to share why he wanted to help veterans create and develop businesses. He reveals the programs that are run by Bunker Labs and how veteran entrepreneurs can find inspiration, connections, and training through the Bunker Labs events and programs. I also spoke with Jessica to learn more about her business and how Bunker Labs have played a crucial role in the success of her company.

“The intent is for Bunker Labs to transform North Carolina into the hub of veteran entrepreneurship.” - Dean Bundschu

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Dean’s military career, post-army veteran mentorship, and his path to Bunker Labs.
• How Bunker Labs is helping veterans and their spouses start and grow their business.
• Why the number of veteran entrepreneurs has dropped significantly since WW2.
• How the Bunker Brews events connect entrepreneurs with a workshop panel, keynote speaker, and networking.
• The four steps in the Launch Lab Online Program that help veteran entrepreneurs jumpstart their business.
• Bunker Labs’s partnership with the coworking organization WeWork.
• How the Veteran in Residence 6-month incubator program helps veteran entrepreneurs build a business.
• How CEOcircle serves the needs of established businesses that are already successful.
• How military veterans can get involved with the programs at Bunker Labs.
• Jessica’s journey to creating K9 Salute after transitioning out of the army.
• How K9 Salute shares tributes to fallen service dogs through dog treat products.
• Why K9 Salutes donates 10% of its profits to a canine or veteran organization.
• Jessica’s experience of the programs offered at Bunker Labs.
• The advice that Jessica would give to someone starting on the business-creation journey.

“You cannot complete your journey in business alone. Bunker Brews events offer that space where you can meet like-minded people that can help you.” - Jessica Harris

Free & Low-Cost Programs at Bunker Labs

• Bunker Brews
• Launch Lab Online
• Veteran in Residence
• CEOcircle

Connect with Dean Bundschu:

• Bunker Labs
• LinkedIn

Connect with Jessica Harris:

• K9 Salute
• LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

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George Glackin is the Chairman of the Board and a Founder of Hatch AVL Foundation, an organization that hosts pitch events and runs programs to help startups and early-stage companies begin their journey and scale-up. George has 35-years of experience in new business creation and innovation. He has led innovation campaigns in all P&G sectors and for brands such as Pantene, Tide, and Pampers. He has a BS in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and has volunteered for organizations such as Habitat for Humanity International.

Ailis Grosh is the Founder of Burban, an online resource and tool for finding food, drink, entertainment and specials within your local area. Ailis is a web developer and young entrepreneur who has become intimately involved in the entrepreneurial community of Asheville. She is an active organizer of Hatch events and for 1 Million Cups’ Asheville chapter.

George joins me today to share how founders and new business startups can gain help and experience through the programs run by Hatch such as their Skinny Dips, Deep Dives, and Demo Days events. He explains how pitch events and workshops help move business ideas forward and highlights the talent pool of mentors who work with the Hatch team. I also spoke with Ailis to learn more about her entrepreneurial journey and how the Hatch pitch events and community of mentors have helped her startup move forward.

“There is no reason not to use the best talent available. Hatch provides that magic, that incubator, and that safe space to be brilliant.” - George Glackin

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How George became one of the founders of Hatch AVL Foundation and how they help entrepreneurs get the job done without going it alone.
• How Hatch’s incubator helps founders use the three P’s: Place, Partnerships, and Programming.
• How Hatch brings a talent pool of founders, mentors, service providers, and investors together.
• Who can present a pitch at Hatch This, the audience vote, and how nine companies are selected to workshop with people in the audience and talented mentors?
• The seed funding offered to the best founding idea at the end of a Hatch This weekend.
• How to join a Pitch Party and present a one-minute pitch.
• What the Skinny Dips programs are and how they help entrepreneurs identify and address fundamental areas in their business model they may have overlooked.
• How the 90-day Deep Dives programs help business owners strategically plan for success.
• How the Demo Day program allows early-stage businesses to present to Hatch mentors and have a chance to win seed funding.
• What the talent pool of Hatch mentors looks like and the fields in which they specialize.
• Ailis’s idea for a map service with category filtering for food, drink, entertainment, and specials.
• Her journey towards creating Burban.
• How Ailis found her way to Hatch and a marketing internship.
• How Ailis helped organize a Demo Day as part of her internship and entrepreneurial development.
• What it feels like to be a Demo Day pitch participant and workshop your business for a day.
• The advice that Ailis would give to a new entrepreneur.

“It’s an incredible opportunity to come in, make connections, and dive into the Hatch community of mentors.” - Ailis Grosh

The low and no-cost founder support programs offered by Hatch:

• Hatch This
• Skinny Dips and Deep Dives
• Demo Day

Connect with George Glackin:

• Hatch
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram

Connect with Ailis Grosh:

• Burban
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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Tom Snyder is the Executive Director of RIoT, a company that delivers programs, mentorship, and connections for Internet of Things (IoT) education for entrepreneurs and new business startups. Tom has two decades of experience in technological incubation and product development and has held leadership roles in companies such as ASSIST Center, a National Science Foundation that creates wearables for healthcare monitoring. He is also a co-instructor at the Product Innovation Lab, which is a Forbes award-winning course on innovation and entrepreneurship.

Crystal Dreisbach is the Founder and Executive Director of Don't Waste Durham and Project Director for GreenToGo. Don’t Waste Durham is a non-profit organization with a mission to eliminate trash at its source. GreenToGo is a business that produces reusable containers for use in the restaurant and groceries industries. Crystal is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer and has a Master’s in Public Health.

Tom joins me today to share how RIoT helps entrepreneurs and business startups learn about the Internet of Things and how it can be used within their business or startup. He defines IoT and how it is affecting the way we live, entertain and do business. He also shares how RIoT’s accelerator programs, education courses, pitch nights and meetup events help entrepreneurs build connections, find mentors, and accelerate their business growth. I also spoke with Crystal to learn more about her businesses, how she discovered the RIoT Accelerator Program, and how participating in the program impacted her business.

“RIoT brings people together to educate them about how emerging technologies are fundamentally changing business. The goal is to help people adapt to that.” - Tom Snyder

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How RIoT went from a meetup on the Internet of Things (IoT) to an economic development resource.
• What IoT is and how it is impacting the data economy.
• How IoT is affecting the way we live, do business, and consume entertainment.
• How RAP (RIoT Accelerator Program) helps entrepreneurs, early-stage startups, and corporate teams with coaching, networking, technology, and IoT education.
• How RIoT events showcase corporate partners and business startups to help entrepreneurs get the credibility and recognition they need to attract investors and customers.
• How RIoT is working with the City of Raleigh to offer the Impact Partner Grant and short-form classroom experiences to help businesses futureproof themselves for the IoT.
• How the Founders Round Table helps entrepreneurs build relationships and find support and mentorships with seasoned executives and local government leaders.
• Why Crystal started the non-profit Don't Waste Durham.
• How GreenToGo developed a reusable container service to tackle the use of single-use plastics.
• How IoT technologies have helped GreentoGo be more automated and made asset tracking easier.
• How RAP helped Crystal to expand her network with industry experts and mentors.
• Crystal’s advice to entrepreneurs that want to apply for the RIoT Accelerator Program.

“What we gained in the RIoT Accelerator Program cannot be measured. Although it was really intense and we heard lots of things that were hard to hear, we came out a lot stronger.” - Crystal Dreisbach

Free & Low-Cost Programs at RIoT:

• RAP (RIoT Accelerator Program)
• RIoT events
• RIoT Ed Courses
• RIoT Pitch Night

Connect with Tom Snyder:

• RIoT
• Email: tom@ncriot.org
• LinkedIn
• Twitter

Connect with Crystal Dreisbach:

• Don't Waste Durham
• GreenToGo
• LinkedIn

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Melody Isis Herman is the Lead Organizer at 1 Million Cups Asheville, a company dedicated to educating, engaging and inspiring entrepreneurs over coffee at weekly startup networking and pitch events. 1 Million Cups was founded by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation to help entrepreneurs with big ideas and provide the resources and tools they need to bring it to life. Recently, the company was awarded the Resource Program of the Year Award at Venture Asheville's Venture 15 and Venture Asheville Honors event. In addition to her work at 1 Million Cups Asheville, Melody is the Founder and Benefits Shaman of Pop Benefits, a financial advisory firm specializing in business insurance, life insurance, and employee benefits. She is also part of the Asheville 40 under 40 class of 2016 and a speaker, counselor, and teacher helping entrepreneurs find excellence and success.

Samantha Winogrond is a financial advisor at JSK Financial, a company that provides services and advice for individuals and businesses. Samantha gained experience working with the 5th largest accounting firm in the country. Before moving to Asheville, North Carolina, Samantha lived in the U.S. Virgin Islands where she owned, operated, and successfully sold a sailing charter company. She has a Masters in Business Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Accounting, and is a member of the NCACPA and AICPA.

Melody joins me today to share how 1 Million Cups Asheville is helping entrepreneurs and business startups connect, learn, and build confidence through presentation events. She explains the value of presenting at an event and how experts, CEOs, past entrepreneurs, and investors make guest appearances to provide value, inspiration, and education. I also spoke with Samantha to get her perspective as a regular 1 Million Cups attendee, how attending the events have impacted her business, and what inspires her to continue attending the weekly events.

“More than anything, 1 Million Cups is about providing entrepreneurs with information in different ways.” - Melody Isis Herman

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How networking events for small businesses and entrepreneurs paved the way for Melody to attend the 1 Million Cups Asheville weekly events for startups, and eventually run the event.
• The inspiration behind the creation of 1 Million Cups Asheville.
• How the 1 Million Cups weekly events helps entrepreneurs build confidence to pitch their ideas.
• How the networking events are structured, including startup presentations and audience Q&A.
• The valuable information and education entrepreneurs can expect by attending the 1 Million Cups weekly events.
• The company’s spin on “fireside chats” and how they help new entrepreneurs and startups gain insight from seasoned entrepreneurs, CEOs, investors, and previous 1 Million Cups presenters.
• How the quarterly open pitches provide opportunities for entrepreneurs and students to pitch their business ideas that may not fit the weekly pitch events criteria.
• How to get involved with 1 Million Cups Asheville’s weekly events.
• How to organize and start a 1 Million Cups event near you.
• Samantha’s financial background, operating her own sailing company and working with JSK Financial.
• The services that JSK Financial offer to businesses and individuals, including tax planning and preparation and investment management.
• How Samantha discovered 1 Million Cups and what new attendees can expect.
• What keeps Samantha coming back to the 1 Million Cups Asheville events each week.
• The advice that Samantha would give to entrepreneurs who are just starting out.
• Melody’s advice for new entrepreneurs.
• Mistakes Melody has made throughout her entrepreneurial career that became a blessing in disguise.

“The 1 Million Cups events are inspiring and motivational and a big part of Asheville. The atmosphere is welcoming, and there is a sense of empowerment among the entrepreneurs that are presenting.” - Samantha Winogrond

The 1 Million Cups Asheville startups presentation event:

• Apply to Present at 1 Million Cups

Connect with Melody Isis Herman:

• 1 Million Cups Asheville
• Pop Benefits
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram

Connect with Samantha Winogrond:

• JSK Financial
• LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast – faster and easier – at Podcraft.com

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On the Supportedly podcast, I always need to cut material from interviews that I wish I could include in the podcast. This material is often packed with valuable insight, tips, and funny stories from inspiring entrepreneurs - like you - but needed to be cut for time.

On this bonus episode, I want to share some of the highlights of the previous discussions I had with some of the inspiring entrepreneurs I have featured on the show, such as No Evil Foods Co-Founder Sadrah Schadal, Patchd Medical CEO Robert Quinn, Foothills Digest Editor-In-Chief Carmen Eckard, and Toybrary of Asheville’s Chief Play Officer Susan Dobroski. Some of these conversations were funny, some were informative - but all were inspiring and well-worth sharing. I am confident you will enjoy this bonus episode as much as I enjoyed creating it.

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• What led Sadrah Schadel to start No Evil Foods.
• The best entrepreneurial mistake Sadrah has made.
• Robert Quinn’s background and what led him to create Patchd Medical.
• Robert’s advice for new entrepreneurs just starting out.
• How driving for Uber helped Robert master the art of the 60-second pitch.
• What led Carmen Eckard to create Foothills Digest.
• Carmen’s one piece of advice for new entrepreneurs.
• What inspired Susan Dobroski to create the Toybrary of Asheville.
• What the Asheville community can do to help Toybrary grow and reach the next level of success.
• What is the Toybox Fund and how it helps Toybrary offer free programs throughout the Asheville community?

Inspring Advice for New Entrepreneurs

• “Cherish those early days when things are kind of cool and casual. It’s going to get a lot more crazy - so hold on!” - Sadrah Schadel, No Evil Foods Co-founder
• “Make sure everyone is investing - even if you’re best friends.” - Robert Quinn, Patchd Medical CEO
• “Write more stuff down. The most important thing is to keep really good records.” - Carmen Eckard, Foothills Digest Editor-In-Chief

Related Content:

• Episode 002: A-B Tech Small Business Center: Sparking the Entrepreneurial Fire
• Episode 005: Building Viable Businesses Through The Edison Project with Catawba County Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Lindsay Keisler
• Episode 006: Supporting Small Business Development Through Collaboration with Mountain Bizworks’ Entrepreneurship Program Manager Kimberly Hunter
• Episode 008: How Entrepreneurs Should Tackle Acquiring Investment with KdT Ventures Founder Dr. Cain McClary

Connect with Sadrah Schadel, Robert Quinn, Carmen Eckard, and Susan Dobroski:

• No Evil Foods
• Patchd Medical
• Foothills Digest
• Toybrary of Asheville

Disclaimer: During his 60-second pitch for Patchd Medical, Robert stated “you can entirely prevent sepsis.” Sepsis is a potentially fatal condition caused by the body’s response to an infection. Robert recently requested we clarify his pitch statement, explaining that he meant to state “in theory, one should be able to entirely prevent sepsis.”

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own greatpodcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Since its foundation, the Supportedly podcast and website has engaged with entrepreneurs, sharing essential information that will help them on their journey. Supportedly has successfully highlighted the support programs that are out there for entrepreneurs to help them start and develop businesses. Your valuable feedback helps us change the way that we support entrepreneurs.

On today’s episode, Tom and I take a look at the future of Supportedly. We answer questions surrounding the software and backside of the company and share how we envision the next couple of years to look. We share our goals, ideas, and projects that are underway, in addition to our personal goals. We also highlight where Supportedly will go in 2019 and how it will help more entrepreneurs find support and success over the coming years.

“A focus of Supportedly in 2019 is to broaden our range and get out into the state and region to connect with other support providers that are good examples and models.” - Stephanie Kissel

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• The improvements and enhancements that will be made to Supportedly over the next year.
• How new content will be presented to entrepreneurs in a way where they can easily see how it will work for them.
• How the Supportedly software will be used by other partnerships to create portals for entrepreneurs.
• How the feedback we have received will be used to improve Supportedly in 2019.
• Our personal goals for 2019, including our fitness goals and possible Supportedly 10K.
• The things that Tom would love to do and considering for 2019.
• The focus of Supportedly in 2019.
• Where we would like to see the Supportedly podcast go in the new year and how we would like it to be more user/listener driven.
• Why we would like to engage with and highlight other experts and support platforms for entrepreneurs.
• What Tom is excited about for Supportedly and how it will help more entrepreneurs be successful.

“We are establishing some partnerships, such as with universities, where we can take the Supportedly software and allow others to use that engine to create their websites and portals for their entrepreneurs.” - Tom Ryan

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own greatpodcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Christmas and New Year are the perfect time for reflection. Business owners and entrepreneurs often take time to look back at the past year. The holiday season gives entrepreneurs a rare moment when they can pause, enjoy the festivities, and spend time with family. They also spend time thinking about the successes and failures of 2018 and consider the lessons they can learn to improve their business.

On today’s special Christmas episode, Tom and I take time to think about the past two years at Supportedly. We share a behind the curtains glimpse of Supportedly and the lessons we have learned since starting the company. We also take turns pulling questions out of a hat to share stories that have made our year truly rewarding as well as the funniest and most challenging aspects of our partnership.

“Being an entrepreneur can be hard and lonely, but through Supportedly, we have realized just how much help is out there to support the growth of new businesses and entrepreneurs.” - Stephanie Kissel

The questions we answer this week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• The best and most challenging aspects of our partnership.
• How working on Supportedly has impacted our views of entrepreneurship.
• A common misperception about entrepreneurship and how Supportedly helps address this issue.
• When Steph has laughed the hardest about with Tom.
• The one thing Tom hopes everyone knows about Steph.
• The easiest aspects of our partnership.
• Lessons learned from the past two years while working at Supportedly.
• How our views of Supportedly have changed since we started it.

Resources Mentioned:

• You Made It Weird Podcast with Pete Holmes

“There is terrific help out there with millions of dollars being invested in support programs for entrepreneurs who may not be aware of them.” - Tom Ryan

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own greatpodcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Zurilma Anuel is the Latino Program Director at Carolina Small Business Development Fund, a non-profit organization that offers business coaching, mentoring and funding for small Latino businesses and entrepreneurs. Their mission is to create economic opportunity for all people. Zurlima is a board member of the Literacy Council of Asheville Buncombe County and a board member of the Minority Enterprise Development Week. She has a bachelor’s degree in Commercial and Financial Administration from the Central University of Caracas and holds certifications in Economic Development Finance and Business Credit Analysis.

Lori Garcia-McCammon is the founder of True Ridge Ministries, a non-profit organization that unites the community by educating, inspiring and empowering people to create real change. She has been a Bilingual Client Advocate for Safelight and the Family Justice Centre. Lori graduated from Florida International University with a bachelor’s degree in Management Information Systems and a Master’s in Business Administration from the Universidad de Oriente.

Zurilma joins me today to share how she got involved in the Latino Business Program. She explains the services and support that are available to help Latino businesses and entrepreneurs through the Carolina Small Business Development Fund as well as education and coaching. I also spoke with Lori to learn more about True Ridge Ministries, how it is working within the Latino community, and how the Latino Business Program has helped her make connections and build relationships that have been crucial to the success of her organization.

“Our mission is to foster the economic development of small Latino businesses by providing access to capital and business education.” - Zurilma Anuel

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Zurilma’s journey from banking to working with the Carolina Small Business Development Fund and creating the Latino Business Program.
• The mission of the Carolina Small Business Development Fund, and why it has been essential to expand into the Latino business community to break down the language barriers.
• How Latino entrepreneurs can get access to capital when they can't get a business loan from a bank.
• How the Latin Business Program offers coaching and educational opportunities such as how to write a business plan, business finances, and one-on-one coaching.
• The biggest challenge that Latino businesses are encountering.
• Lori’s background and what drove her to create her organization and give Latinos a voice.
• How True Ridge got started and the bilingual court advocacy and case management services.
• Why Lori believes Latino business owners should take advantage of the Latino Business Program.
• The advice that Lori would share with entrepreneurs who are just starting their entrepreneurial journey.

“I love the connections and relationships that the Latin Business Program has been vital in introducing.” - Lori Garcia-McCammon

Latino Business Programs from the Carolina Small Business Development Fund:

• Latino Business Program
• Carolina Small Business Loan
• Coaching and Educational Opportunities

Resources:

• Business Plan Template
• Fund Projection Template

Connect with Zurilma Anuel:

• Carolina Small Business Development Fund
• Email: servicios@carolinasmallbusiness.org
• Phone: (919) 267-1738

Connect with Lori Garcia-McCammon:

• True Ridge Ministries
• True Ridge on Facebook

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Lou Anne Flanders-Stec is the Executive VP of Entrepreneurship at Launch Greensboro at Greensboro Chamber of Commerce where she develops programs and opportunities that help entrepreneurs launch and grow their businesses and connect with mentors and venture capital supporters. Launch Greensboro is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs throughout the Triad region through various programs, workshops, and events such as Co//ab, IdeaLaunch, LaunchLab, and Triad Navigator. Lou Anne has worked with dozens of early-stage startup companies throughout her career. She holds an MBA in Finance from the University of North Texas as well as an undergraduate degree from Ouachita Baptist University in Business Administration and has served on numerous boards of national and community organizations including the Angel Capital Association and Greensboro Children’s Museum. She has been recognized as one of the Piedmont Triad’s 50 Most Influential People as well as one of the 2013 Top Women in Business in the Triad.

Shawn Gagne is the Founder and CEO of Urban Offsets, a Greensboro, North Carolina-based company focused on helping cities and communities understand the value of urban environments and how they work while building climate resilient communities. The company is building a social media platform for sustainability to help companies and nonprofits locate, invest in, and support natural assets that help protect them from the effects of climate change while managing natural resources and improving sustainability in urban areas.

Lou Anne joins me today to share the programs offered by Launch Greensboro that help entrepreneurs start and grow their business. She highlights how each program is tailored to start-ups at different stages of development, including pitch events, weekend workshops, and in-depth multi-week courses. I also spoke with Shawn to learn more about Urban Offset’s urban sustainability efforts and how the programs from Launch Greensboro played a part in the company’s success.

“Launch Greensboro’s mission is to support entrepreneurs as they start, build, and grow their business. So, from idea pitches to an accelerator program, that is our goal - to help them learn and be skilled so they can begin to build and grow sustainable businesses.” - Lou Anne Flanders-Stec

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Lou Anne’s journey from a family business working with small business entrepreneurs to her role in the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce.
• How Launch Greensboro is helping entrepreneurs start, build, and grow their business through programs and coworking spaces, from an idea to creation of a sustainable business.
• How the Co//ab coworking space supports entrepreneurs who want to start a business.
• What is IdeaLaunch and how it helps entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas through monthly pitch events, feedback, and pitch coaching?
• How LaunchCamp Tech and LaunchCamp Creative have helped businesses with customer discovery, market testing, and defining their ideal customers.
• The upcoming 2019 LaunchCamp Side-Gig and how it will help entrepreneurs develop a side-gig/side hustle into a business.
• How the LaunchLab 101 and LaunchLab Growth Series accelerator programs help businesses learn the basics from corporate structure to banking and accounting and beyond.
• How the Triad Navigator helps entrepreneurs connect with resources and events in the community.
• How the First Launch Capital Fund is investing in early-stage businesses.
• The annual Capital Connects pitch event and how it helps entrepreneurs raise capital.
• The type of entrepreneurs and startup businesses that are best suited for the programs offered at Launch Greensboro.
• Shawn’s background and why he created Urban Offsets.
• How the Launch Greensboro programs have helped Urban Offsets find success.

“With Lou Anne on board, we are finding a gathering of resources and a recognition of patterns in the community and getting success stories in place is the next big step for Greensboro.” - Shawn Gagne

The Low-Cost Programs at Greensboro Chamber of Commerce’s Launch Greensboro:

• Co//ab
• IdeaLaunch
• LaunchLab
• Triad Navigator
• First Launch Capital Fund
• Capital Connects

Connect with Lou Anne Flanders-Stec:

• Launch Greensboro
• Email: dwhite@greensboro.org
• Phone: (336)-387-8300
• LinkedIn

Connect with Shawn Gagne:

• Urban Offsets
• Email: info@urbanoffsets.co
• LinkedIn

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

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Dan St. Louis is the Executive Director of Manufacturing Solutions Center at Catawba Valley Community College, a non-profit organization that helps entrepreneurs and young businesses develop their products, build their knowledge and skills, and grow through entrepreneurial programs, mentoring, workspace and tools. He has a bachelor’s degree in Textile Technology from NC State University and he has previously worked in manufacturing at Collins and Aikman Incorporated and Springs Industries

Abbie Boudreau is the Creator and CEO of Sockabu, a business that produces socks for children that allows them to cover their toes for warmth or uncover them for extra traction. The Sockabu sock is produced and sold in the US. Abbie is a three-time National Emmy Award-winning journalist with CNN as well as ABC’s Good Morning America and Nightline.

Dan joins me today to discuss the learning programs and support offered by the Manufacturing Solutions Center. He shares the details of the Entrepreneurs Program and highlights their Business Incubation Program. He shares how the Entrepreneurs Programs helps new entrepreneurs start and grow their manufacturing businesses and the types of entrepreneurs that can benefit the most from their Business Incubation Program. I also spoke with Abbie to learn what inspired her to pivot her career from the journalism industry to founding Sockabu and how the Manufacturing Solutions Center helped her bring her company and products to the market.

“Our mission is to create and maintain jobs here in the US. It’s really simple, and everything we do is based on that statement.” - Dan St. Louis

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Dan’s journey to working with the Manufacturing Solutions Center.
• The setup of MSC, its testing capabilities, and the people that work there.
• How the Entrepreneurs Program gets people ready to work with manufacturers through software training, industrial training, product development, and supply chain management.
• How funding from the Economic Development Administration helped MSC to set up the Business Incubation Program.
• The types of companies and entrepreneurs that benefit the most from the Business Incubation Program.
• How the Business Incubation Program works with MSC to provide entrepreneurs with the support, resources, and guidance they need to be successful in the manufacturing industry.
• What drives Dan to continue to find opportunities and ways to create new jobs.
• Abbie’s inspiration and journey from journalism to founding Sockabu.
• What the Sockabu sock is.
• The manufacturing challenges she faced during the early stages of her business.
• How MSC gave Abbie the unique opportunity to talk directly with the people in the factory to bring her product to the market.
• Abbie’s perspective on what it’s like to work with the Manufacturing Solutions Center.
• Dan’s advice to new entrepreneurs.

“Working with MSC has been a dream for me because they go out of their way to help you in any way that they can.” - Abbie Boudreau

The Programs available at the Manufacturing Solutions Center:

• Entrepreneurs Program
• Business Incubation Opportunity
• Training Program

Connect with Dan St. Louis:

• Marketing Solutions Center
• Email: dstlouis@manufacturingsolutionscenter.org
• LinkedIn
• Phone: (828) 327-7000

Connect with Abbie Boudreau:

• Sockabu
• com
• com
• Instagram
• Facebook
• Twitter

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Juan Garzon is a Messaging Strategist and the Executive Director of PitchBreakfast, a nonprofit event where entrepreneurs and businesses can learn to pitch in a safe environment. Juan is the publisher and founder of Start Charlotte, a publication that supports startups within the region, and an advisor and mentor to several community accelerators such as Queen City Fintech. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from the Johnson and Wales University and has spent more than a decade working in marketing and entrepreneurship.

Sam Smith is the Founder and CEO of Vishion, a new startup that is launching an app for shopping and interior design with a color-centric search. She has a degree in Journalism and Communication from Christopher Newport University and has spent six years working in marketing, sales, and business development. Her roles include the VP of Customer Experience at Virtual StrongBox. Additionally, she is the co-founder of Collective Hustle, a founder and investor network that focus on the inclusion of women, and volunteers as a Big Sister mentor at her local Big Brothers Big Sisters organization.

Juan joins me today to share how PitchBreakfast events work and the skills that entrepreneurs and companies can gain. He reveals why every entrepreneur should be able to pitch, the types of companies and entrepreneurs will benefit most from attending the events, and the benefits of attending a PitchBreakfast event as an audience member. I also spoke with Sam to learn how she discovered the PitchBreakfast event, what inspired her to create Vishion, and what she learned about pitching in her role as a new founder.

“Our hope for the companies that are pitching is for them to walk away with more confidence in their business, confidence in their pitch, and feeling like they are maybe not fully ready but one step closer to be able to pitch to an investor.” - Juan Garzon

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Juan’s journey including transitioning from the first pitch workshop to the PitchBreakfast event.
• The mission of PitchBreakfast and what types of companies or entrepreneurs will benefit from the event.
• The value and benefit of being in the audience during a PitchBreakfast.
• The feedback and advice that Juan frequently shares with entrepreneurs.
• Why every entrepreneur should be able to pitch.
• The locations and frequency of PitchBreakfast events and how to apply.
• What’s next for PitchBreakfast.
• Sam’s journey towards creating Vishion.
• An explanation of what Vishion does and how the Vishion app works.
• How Sam discovered PitchBreakfast.
• What she gained during the safe environment of a PitchBreakfast event.
• How to get the beta version of the Vishion app.
• What to work on before you attend a PitchBreakfast event.

“Pitch Breakfast is the perfect opportunity for you to be in a safe environment to start pitching before you go out and fundraise, or in my case, pitch to retailers and interior designers.” - Sam Smith

Free PitchBreakdfasy Events:

• Apply to Pitch
• Attend PitchBreakfast

Connect with Juan Garzon:

• PitchBreakfast
• Juan Garzon on LinkedIn
• Email: hello@pitchbreakfast.com
• Phone: (704) 350-5826

Connect with Sam Smith:

• Vishion
• Vishion on LinkedIn
• Vishion App
• Email: info@vishion.co

This episode is sponsored by Spengler Agans Law Firm

When it comes to all aspects of your business - who you work with matters. Spengler Agans Law is Charlotte’s go-to law firm for startup businesses and small to mid-size companies. Spengler Agans specializes in helping entrepreneurs with everything from business formation to key contracts to early-stage funding. Spengler Agans attorneys and associates help clients understand how various strategic business options can increase or reduce risk and how to grow a sustainable company.

Working with a law firm that specializes in providing top legal guidance to startup businesses and entrepreneurial enterprises makes a difference. Learn more about Spengler Agans Law Firm and their services by visiting SpenglerAgansLaw.com

Subscribe, Rate & Share

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Jeffrey Kaplan is the Director of Venture Asheville, an organization helping startups throughout Asheville by connecting them with talent, mentors, and investors. Through programs such as The Elevate Program, Asheville Angels Investor Network, and by partnering with local support organizations - like Supportedly - the company has helped startups throughout the community raise over $4-Million in capital. They have been featuredin several print publications including Forbesand The Huffington Post. Beforeworking with Venture Asheville, Jeff instructed in Entrepreneurship at the University of Florida, launched and successfully sold a pet-tech company, and has worked as a Product Owner and Consultant in digital product development at Anthroware.

Nick Moen is the founder of The Bright Angle, a collaborative handmade design studio in Asheville that focuses on bridging the gap between technology, design, and handmade crafts. He is a designer and studio artist with a background in ceramics and a degree from Alfred University with a focus on ceramic design and materials. He is passionate about working in a collaborative environment with highly skilled craftspeople, producing well-designed handcrafted products for customers to enjoy and cherish.

Jeff joins me today to share his journey into entrepreneurship and why he is passionate about helping the entrepreneurial and startup communities. He explains how Venture Asheville helps startups connect and network with mentors, investors, and other entrepreneurs within the community and the support new entrepreneurs can expect from each of their programs. He also explains how to identify when your startup is ready to pitch to investors and shares tips on how to create a well-thought-out pitch. I also spoke with Nick to learn how The Elevate Program has helped him grow and scale his businesses, how he discovered the program, and some of the exciting new projects he has planned on the horizon with his company.

“Entrepreneurship is the most freedom-creating, independence-driving movement of our time. An individual can gain entrepreneurial skills so they can be their owndriver of self-reliance.” - Jeffrey Kaplan

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• How Jeff began working with Venture Asheville.
• Why he is passionate about helping the entrepreneurial and startup communities.
• How the Elevate Program assists high-growth startups.
• What is the Asheville Angel Investor Network and how it helps entrepreneurs raise capital for their ventures?
• What is the Asheville Entrepreneurship Week?
• The type of entrepreneur that The Elevate Program can help the most.
• The support entrepreneurs can expect from The Elevate Program’s mentors and participants.
• How to identify when your startup is ready to pitch to the Asheville Angel Investor Network.
• Advice on creating the perfect pitch for angel investor funding.
• How to get started with Venture Asheville.
• Nick’s journey into entrepreneurship and how he started The Bright Angle.
• Interesting and unique projects that have started from the collaborations and connections he’s madewith other artists.
• How he became involved with Venture Asheville’s Elevate program.
• His experience with participating in the Elevate program.
• How the Elevate program has impacted the growth of The Bright Angle.
• Nick’s advice for startup entrepreneurs.
• What every entrepreneur should ask themselves before working with Venture Asheville.

“The mentors I’ve worked with in Asheville Venture’s Elevate program have really helped me refine what we’re doing, why we’re doing it, and how to move forward.” - Nick Moen

Free & Low-Cost Programs at Venture Asheville:

• The Elevate Program
• Asheville Angels Investor Network

Resources Mentioned:

• The Only 10 Slides You Need in a Pitchby Guy Kawasaki

Connect with Jeffrey Kaplan:

• Venture Asheville
• Email: JKaplan@VentureAsheville.com

Connect with Nick Moen:

• The Bright Angle
• The Bright Angle on YouTube

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Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

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Dr. Cain McClary is the founder and managing director of KdT Ventures, a company that helps entrepreneurs start other businesses through early stage capital funding in the fields of life sciences innovation and technology. Cain has personally made first money investments in firms such as Zymergen, valued at over $1 billion, and Firefly Bioworks, which has since been acquired by AbCam. Cain sits on the advisory board of 8VC and previously on the faculty at Stanford University. Cain has a Doctor of Medicine degree (MD) from Tulane University School of Medicine and a Sc.B. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Brown University.

Robert Quinn is the co-founder and CEO of Patchd, a company formed on the back of the miracle of Robert having a liver transplant and surviving eighteen cases of sepsis. Patchd has developed artificial intelligence that can predict with high levels of accuracy if someone will get sepsis. He has a degree in Mechatronic Engineering and dual degrees in Biomedical Science, from the University of Queensland and the University of Virginia.

Cain joins me today to talk about the types of projects, companies, and entrepreneurs that receive investment and support from KdT Ventures. He discusses how to approach investment pitches and the key things that entrepreneurs should be aware of before attending one. I also spoke with Robert to learn how Cain and KdT Ventures helped him and Patchd receive investment capital to grow his business.

“You can never talk to too many people. The more conversations you have, and the more of an open mind you have during those conversations, the more you will be able to grow and understand the layers of the world.” - Dr. Cain McClary

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Cain’s Journey from medicine to early-stage investing.
• How he raised venture capital to develop frontier computational technologies, machine learning, and artificial learning to revolutionize medicine, chemicals, agriculture, and biology.
• About KdT and the company’s investment thesis.
• The types of projects and entrepreneurs that get investments from KdT.
• Examples of the misalignments that still get investments from KdT.
• How to get in touch and be noticed by institutional venture capitalists.
• The points that entrepreneurs fail to make when pitching for investment.
• The financial metrics, strategies, and competition awareness that entrepreneurs should have before making investment pitches.
• The support and what it is like to be a company invested in by KdT.
• Robert’s background, and the miracle that inspired him to found Patchd.
• Developing an AI (artificial intelligence) that can predict sepsis.
• How Patchd got paired up with KdT Ventures.
• What Robert finds so unique and exciting about KdT Ventures.
• The proactive role that Cain and KdT take in helping Robert and Patchd.
• The lessons that Robert would like to pass on to other entrepreneurs.

“Cain will go to the end of the earth to find a solution.” - Robert Quinn

Connect with Dr. Cain McClary:

• KdT Ventures
• Cain McClary on LinkedIn
• KdT Ventures on LinkedIn

Connect with Robert Quinn:

• Patchd
• Robert Quinn on LinkedIn
• Patchd on LinkedIn

This episode is sponsored by Spengler Agans Law Firm

When it comes to all aspects of your business - who you work with matters. Spengler Agans Lawis Charlotte’s go-to law firm for startup businesses and small to mid-size companies. Spengler Agans specializes in helping entrepreneurs with everything from business formation to key contracts to early-stage funding. Spengler Agans attorneys and associates help clients understand how various strategic business options can increase or reduce risk and how to grow a sustainable company.

Working with a law firm that specializes in providing top legal guidance to startup businesses and entrepreneurial enterprises makes a difference. Learn more about Spengler Agans Law Firm and their services by visiting SpenglerAgansLaw.com

Subscribe, Rate & Share

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedlypodcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunesand leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own greatpodcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Dr. Cain McClary is the founder and managing director of KdT Ventures, a company that helps entrepreneurs start other businesses through early stage capital funding in the fields of life sciences innovation and technology. Cain has personally made first money investments in firms such as Zymergen, valued at over $1 billion, and Firefly Bioworks, which has since been acquired by AbCam. Cain sits on the advisory board of 8VC and previously on the faculty at Stanford University. Cain has a Doctor of Medicine degree (MD) from Tulane University School of Medicine and a Sc.B. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Brown University.

Robert Quinn is the co-founder and CEO of Patchd, a company formed on the back of the miracle of Robert having a liver transplant and surviving eighteen cases of sepsis. Patchd has developed artificial intelligence that can predict with high levels of accuracy if someone will get sepsis. He has a degree in Mechatronic Engineering and dual degrees in Biomedical Science, from the University of Queensland and the University of Virginia.

Cain joins me today to talk about the types of projects, companies, and entrepreneurs that receive investment and support from KdT Ventures. He discusses how to approach investment pitches and the key things that entrepreneurs should be aware of before attending one. I also spoke with Robert to learn how Cain and KdT Ventures helped him and Patchd receive investment capital to grow his business.

“You can never talk to too many people. The more conversations you have, and the more of an open mind you have during those conversations, the more you will be able to grow and understand the layers of the world.” - Dr. Cain McClary

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Cain’s Journey from medicine to early-stage investing.
• How he raised venture capital to develop frontier computational technologies, machine learning, and artificial learning to revolutionize medicine, chemicals, agriculture, and biology.
• About KdT and the company’s investment thesis.
• The types of projects and entrepreneurs that get investments from KdT.
• Examples of the misalignments that still get investments from KdT.
• How to get in touch and be noticed by institutional venture capitalists.
• The points that entrepreneurs fail to make when pitching for investment.
• The financial metrics, strategies, and competition awareness that entrepreneurs should have before making investment pitches.
• The support and what it is like to be a company invested in by KdT.
• Robert’s background, and the miracle that inspired him to found Patchd.
• Developing an AI (artificial intelligence) that can predict sepsis.
• How Patchd got paired up with KdT Ventures.
• What Robert finds so unique and exciting about KdT Ventures.
• The proactive role that Cain and KdT take in helping Robert and Patchd.
• The lessons that Robert would like to pass on to other entrepreneurs.

“Cain will go to the end of the earth to find a solution.” - Robert Quinn

Connect with Dr. Cain McClary:

• KdT Ventures
• Cain McClary on LinkedIn
• KdT Ventures on LinkedIn

Connect with Robert Quinn:

• Patchd
• Robert Quinn on LinkedIn
• Patchd on LinkedIn

This episode is sponsored by Spengler Agans Law Firm

When it comes to all aspects of your business - who you work with matters. Spengler Agans Lawis Charlotte’s go-to law firm for startup businesses and small to mid-size companies. Spengler Agans specializes in helping entrepreneurs with everything from business formation to key contracts to early-stage funding. Spengler Agans attorneys and associates help clients understand how various strategic business options can increase or reduce risk and how to grow a sustainable company.

Working with a law firm that specializes in providing top legal guidance to startup businesses and entrepreneurial enterprises makes a difference. Learn more about Spengler Agans Law Firm and their services by visiting SpenglerAgansLaw.com

Subscribe, Rate & Share

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedlypodcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunesand leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own greatpodcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Kimberly Hunter is the Entrepreneurship Program Manager of Mountain Bizworks, a Community Development Financial Institution that offers business loans and coaching to entrepreneurs in Western North Carolina. Mountain Bizworks specializes in helping business’s unable to access financing from banks and other traditional sources, as well as those on a low income, are a minority, or immigrant entrepreneur. Kimberley is committed to creating greatness together because she is a person who cares.

Susan Dobroski is the Founder and Cheif Play Officer at Toybrary, a toy lending library located in Asheville. She has a Bachelor of Science Degree in Parks and Recreation/Environmental Education and specializes in Therapeutic Recreation. She has put her academic knowledge, skills as a parent, and teacher into creating Asheville’s first toy-lending library.

Kimberly joins me today to share her journey and how she began working with Mountain Bizworks. She discusses how the organization, the programs, and the people behind Mountain Bizworks helps entrepreneurs start and grow their business. I also spoke with Susan to reveal why she created Toybrary and discover how the Foundations Business Planning Class from Mountain Bizworks was fundamental to making her idea a reality.

“It’s about celebrating the individual and their ideas and thoughts and how they integrate into any one or multiple regions. We are an intermediary for giving access to capital for businesses and people who are low to moderate income earners.” - Kimberly Hunter

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Kimberly’s background and how she joined Mountain Bizworks.
• The vision and the big problem that Mountain Bizworks is trying to solve.
• The specific programs offered by Mountain Bizworks.
• How aspiring entrepreneurs and existing businesses can learn comprehensive business skills and develop a business plan through the Foundations Business Planning Class.
• How existing entrepreneurs and past Foundations participants can utilize the Alpine Class and peer-to-peer learning to assess how their business is performing and uncover the right time to upscale their company as a precursor to the ScaleUp WNC Program.
• How businesses with strong growth potential can join the ScaleUp WNC Program and capitalize on tailored services to achieve significant business development milestones.
• How Mountain Bizworks lends money.
• The low to moderate income Scholarship Program.
• How the Test Drive Program brings startup businesses to the forefront.
• How entrepreneurs can get involved with Mountain Bizworks.
• What excites Kimberley about her future work with Mountain Bizworks.
• Susan’s background and the creation of Toybrary.
• Her experience with the Test Drive Program and the exposure that it offers.
• What it is like to work with Mountain Bizworks.
• How the advice and mentoring from Mountain Bizworks helped Toybrary.
• The advice that Susan would give to anyone who is getting started.
• How the community can assist Toybrary.

“Mountain Bizworks have a foundations course, and that was the game changer. I had this vision to learn the business aspect, and they gave me the comprehensive tools and support to take an idea and birth it into reality. That was extraordinary.” - Susan Dobroski

Free & Low-Cost Programs and Classes at Mountain Bizworks:

• Foundations Business Planning Class
• Alpine Class
• Scaleup WNC
• Test Drive Asheville

Connect with Kimberly Hunter:

• Mountain BizWorks
• Facebook
• Phone: 828 253 2834
• Email: info@mountainbizworks.org

Connect with Susan Dobroski:

• Toybrary
• Facebook
• Phone: 512 765 4174
• Email: info@toybraryaustin.com

Subscribe, Rate & Share

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Lindsay Keisler is the President and CEO of the Catawba County Chamber of Commercewhere she focuses on organizational excellence and overall innovation and relevance in the Catawba business community. In 2009, she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with a major in Marketing from UNC Charlotte. In 2013, she earned her IOM designation from the US Chamber Institute at the University of Georgia for Organization Management. She has been recognizedfor numerous awards including one of Greater Hickory Metro’s Top 10 Under 40, a Woman of Distinction by the Girl Scout Peaks to Piedmont Council, and as one of the 2018 Trailblazers by Business North Carolina Magazine. In addition to her work with the Catawba County Chamber, she also serves as the Treasurer for the Carolinas Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives and has served on several boards throughout the community.

Carmen Eckard is the Editor-In-Chief of the Foothills Digest. Foothills Digest is a magazine dedicated to sharing stories of the foothills in Hickory, North Carolina through breathtaking photos and captivating articles.

Lindsay joins me today to share her career journey, what led her to start working with the Catawba County Chamber of Commerce, and how the chamber is impacting the local business community. She explains the various programs available for new and veteran entrepreneurs as well as job seekers and military veterans including The Edison Project, the Talent Jam event, and the Tapping Into Talent Symposium as well as the Catawba Military Task Force and Welcome Home, Hickory Metro. I also spoke with Carmen to learn how The Edison Project has helped her take her magazine from a basic idea to creating an actionable business plan to successfully launching her business.

“Something that chambers have traditionally always been good at is providing opportunities just to connect with other individuals that are either like-minded, potential customers, power players, and influencers within our community.” - Lindsay Keisler

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• Lindsay’s career journey and how she began working with the Catawba County Community Chamber of Commerce.
• How she is breaking the chamber out of the “old and pale and stale and male” stereotype within the community.
• How Chambers of Commerce impact the business community and the areas she believes they should focus their attention the most.
• The biggest challenges that Catawba County Chamber of Commerce hopes to solve for businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the county.
• What is the Entrepreneur Consortium and how it helps connect and encourage local support for entrepreneurs to start, grow, and scale their businesses?
• The Edison Project entrepreneurial competitions and how they help entrepreneurs launch successful, viable businesses within the community.
• The type of entrepreneurs that THe Edison Project is most suitable for.
• The chamber’s unique partnership with the Small Business Technology Development Center and how this partnership has helped entrepreneurs throughout the community.
• The Tapping Into Talent Symposium and how it helps businesses use unconventional strategies to find and hire talent.
• How the Talent Jam event helps connect job seekers with local opportunities.
• How the Catawba Military Task Force and Welcome Home Hickory Metro events help transitioningmilitary members andtheir families re-enter the civilian workforce.
• What led Carmen to create Foothills Digest.
• What inspired her to focus the magazine’s topics on the Hickory Metro foothills.
• How she discovered The Edison Project and her first impression of the program.
• How participating in The Edison Project helped her “fill the gaps” of developing her business.
• The three parts of business development that The Edison Project helps entrepreneurs plan.
• Carmen’s advice to new entrepreneurs.
• The best mistake Carmen has made in her career.
• How local entrepreneurs can begin getting involved with the Catawba County Chamber of Commerce and their programs.
• Short-term and Long-term initiatives at Catawba County Chamber of Commerce.
• Lindsay’s advice for new entrepreneurs and startups.
• The importance of viewing mistakes and failures as opportunities to learn, grow and improve.
• What every entrepreneur should ask themselves before working with the Catawba County Chamber of Commerce.

“The Catawba County Chamber of Commerce supports the business community by helping us support each other. I think that’s the most important thing.” Carmen Eckard

Free & Low-Cost Programs at the Catawba County Chamber of Commerce:

• The Edison Project
• Welcome Home, Hickory Metro
• Catawba County Chamber of Commerce Events Calendar
• Catawba County Chamber of Commerce Programs

Connect with Lindsay Keisler:

• Catawba County Chamber of Commerce
• (828) 328-6111
• LKeisler@CatawbaChamber.org

Connect with Carmen Eckard:

• Foothills Digest

Subscribe, Rate & Share

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedlypodcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunesand leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your owngreatpodcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Jeff Neuville is the Director of the Small Business Center at Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC). CVCC’s Small Business Center is one of 58 centers throughout North Carolina focused on helping new and existing entrepreneurs start and grow sustainable businesses. Jeff has served as President and CEO of several multi-million-dollar companies in the textile and distribution industries. He has received several awards including the US Small Business Administration Collaboration Award and the Small Business Center Network Innovation Award for Collaboration and Service. He holds a master’s degree from the University of Maryland and a bachelor’s degree from UNC-Chapel Hill - both in Business Administration. Additionally, he has a strong background in Marketing and Business Operations.

Cedric Clyburn is the founder of Kitsuma Bar, a natural, performance-based energy bar. He is a high school student currently attending the Challenger Early College High School program at CVCC and has been nationally recognized as the SkillsUSA Entrepreneurship champion. Additionally, he has presented speeches on stages such as TEDxHickory and is passionate about encouraging young entrepreneurs to take risks, follow their dreams, and live life to the fullest.

Jeff joins me today to share his journey and how he began working with CVCC’s Small Business Center. He explains the programs, services, and competitions available at the center and how high school and college students - as well as local, existing entrepreneurs - can participate in their programs. I also spoke with Cedric to learn more about how CVCC’s Small Business Center has helped him establish his business in the food industry and the valuable lessons he has learned through the center’s programs, seminars, and competitions.

“Often, some of the most important work we do is helping people understand the reality of starting a business and understanding the chances for success - before they start writing checks.” - Jeff Neuville

This week on the Supportedly Podcast:

• What led Jeff to work with CVCC’s Small Business Center.
• The Small Business Center Network and what makes CVCC’s center unique.
• Services the center offers to entrepreneurs and small businesses throughout the community.
• The biggest challenge that CVCC’s Small Business Center hopes to solve within the community.
• Programs and seminars available at CVCC’s center to help entrepreneurs start and promote their business.
• What the Students with Attainable Goals program is and how it encourages high school students to consider entrepreneurship as a career path.
• How entrepreneurs can get involved with CVCC’s Small Business Center’s programs.
• The most exciting short-term and long-term goals for the center.
• What led Cedric to create Kitsuma Bars.
• How being part of the CVCC’s Small Business Center’s programs as an early college student has empowered Cedric to start his journey as an entrepreneur successfully.
• The Shark Tank program and how it helps students develop a business plan, pitch their idea to local investors and administrative staff, and receive funding for their entrepreneurial venture.
• How the SkillsUSA program helps students learn and improve key trade and manufacturing skills.
• Cedric’s experience while attending the Funding Your Business seminar at CVCC’s Small Business Center.
• The Challenger Early College program at CVCC and how they help high school students develop 21st-century skills to ensure their success as entrepreneurs.
• What is the Edison Project and how it helps entrepreneurs?
• Jeff’s advice to new and existing entrepreneurs.
• What entrepreneurs should ask themselves before working with CVCC’s Small Business Center.

“Everybody helping each other in that community is really what it’s all about. It was really fun in the Edison Project.” - Cedric Clyburn

Free & Low-Cost Programs at CVCC’s Small Business Center:

• Manufacturing Solutions Center
• Carolina Textile District
• The Edison Project
• Students with Attainable Goals
• The Shark Tank Competition
• SkillsUSA
• The Challenger Early College Program

Connect with Jeff Neuville:

• CVCC Small Business Center
• Email: JNeuville@CVCC.edu
• Phone: (828) 327-7000

Connect with Cedric Clyburn:

• Kitsuma Bar
• TEDxHickory
• Facebook
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Subscribe, Rate & Share

Thanks for tuning into this week’s episode of the Supportedly podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe on iTunes and leave your honest review. Don’t forget to visit our website, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, and share your favorite episodes on social media!

The Supportedly Podcast is produced by Podcraft. You can create your own great podcast - faster and easier - at Podcraft.com

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Exploring great entrepreneur support programs and the people behind them.

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Exploring great entrepreneur support programs and the people behind them.