Diverse Tech Founders: Recent Episodes

Diverse Tech Founders, LLC

1% tech startup capital, 99% social capital.

Each week meet diverse tech startup founders and their investors from major ecosystems like San Francisco, New York City and London, as well as emerging tech hubs like Charlotte, NC, Houston, TX and Nashville, TN.

Is this your first foray into tech startups? Welcome. Each episode is designed with you in mind to get the most value from each episode.

If you're like me, looking for cutting edge ideas, and next generation thinkers, you're in luck too.

You will enter our community through our guests, whether you're a serial diverse tech founder, angel investor or venture capitalist.

Don't take our word for it, see you inside!

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Nikki Sanz is the founder of Giggs (Music Tech), the only social networking and job posting platform for the Touring Industry.

Question: How do tour managers find talent for your favorite artist when they can't just go on LinkedIn? Answer: Giggs

Giggs is the only platform dedicated to the music industry touring professionals & businesses looking to find and fill jobs on the road. It's time to make our ‘word of mouth’ industry thrive online.

Join the Giggs Waitlist here.

After investing her graduate school funds into a music tech company with zero tech background, learn how Nikki is helping an industry that traditionally found jobs via word of mouth, enter the tech world via a closed community you can apply to join.

Why Interview Nikki Sanz?

  • Nikki reveals her personal childhood healthcare story for the first time publicly.
  • Learn about music tech and how the music touring industry works?
  • As a founder, you'll learn how to overcome early challenges and gain traction.
  • As an investor, you will learn trends in Nashville's startup ecosystem.

Subscribe and Review the #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot.

Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Ranked in the top 15% of podcasts shared globally on Spotify.

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. Who is Nikki Sanz?

  1. Why is Nashville such a hub for music tech?

  2. How can you access one of Nashville's most valuable music-tech resources?

Connect With Nikki Sanz

  • LinkedIn: Nikki Sanz
  • Giggs Website: https://giggs.live/

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Olyvia Phillips is manager of equity initiatives at MATTER. After overcoming a chronic childhood condition, Olyiva made public health and health care advocacy her life's missions, although not without ongoing realizations along the way that ultimately brought her to the center of health equity work in Chicago. She is experienced Public Health and Project Management Professional with a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit sector, specifically focusing on healthcare, public health, and community initiatives.

Why Interview Olyvia Phillips?

  • Olyviareveals her personal childhood healthcare story for the first time publicly.
  • Learn whether efforts in health care equity are working?
  • As a founder, you'll learn how best to leverage startup incubators and accelerators.
  • As an investor, you will learn trends in Chicago's startup ecosystem.

Subscribe and Review the #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot.

Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Ranked in the top 15% of podcasts shared globally on Spotify.

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. Who is Olyvia Phillips?

  1. Why is Chicago such a hub for healthcare equity?

  2. How can you access once of Chicago's most valuable health-tech resources?

Connect With Olyvia Phillips

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olyphil/
  • MATTER Website: https://matter.health/join

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Bryan Young is the founder and CEO of Home Lending Pal. After leaving college a year early for silicon valley and exiting a couple of tech startups, Bryan put his skills to work helping political candidates (including a President of the United States).

Now Bryan is putting clients in homes, using next-generation artificial intelligence technology to qualify you for a home you can afford. Why is it such a mystery to qualify for a home, despite being pre-approved? We get into this topic and more inside.

Also, if you are considering joining an accelerator, learn from a founder who has raised $4M+ and graduated from 12 accelerators.

-When Bryan and I sat down outside of a local Orlando coffee shop, his insights into navigating multiple cultures and business environments left me on the edge of my seat.

-If you are a founder or an investor learn more about housing and cap table management, this may be the most essential interview you hear this week.

Why Interview Bryan Young?

  • Bryan reveals the secrets he used to become a wolf among other wolves.
  • How to build a network from scratch (by trying new experiences)?
  • As a founder, you'll learn the pluses and minuses of startup accelerators.
  • As an investor, you will learn what crafty founders are doing during the due diligence phase to screen investors.

What Will I Learn From This Episode?

As a founder or emerging fund manager, you'll learn what it takes to avoid costly relationship blunders.

Subscribe and Review the #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot.

Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Ranked in the top 15% of podcasts shared globally on Spotify.

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. Who is Bryan Young from Orlando, Florida?

  1. What is Home Lending Pal, and why mortgage lending tech has one of the largest markets in real estate?

  2. What green flags can help founders succeed in new communities?
    Connect With Home Lending Pal
    Website: https://www.homelendingpal.com/
    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/home-lending-pal/
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homelendingpal/

Connect With Bryan Young
Email: hello@homelendingpal.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanyoung1/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bryanyounghlp/?hl=en

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We honor the life of Marc Ward, founder of Socian Technologies.

His spirit impacted so many and his life deserves remembering by us all.

Learn more about Marc Ward in the thoughts he left behind on Twitter, LinkedIn, and through his company Socian Technologies

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I'm on the ground in Black Tech Week to show you why you might want to attend and how to pitch your firm to pay for it (more on this later). 

Here's a quick recap of day one...check out the main theme: storytelling and corporate funding. 

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Madilynn Beck is founder and CEO of The Better Spot. After a world-rocking healthcare scare, Madilynn sought to change her future wellness experiences, launching a physical space where wellness professionals could invite their clients. As the world shifted, Madilynn expanded her footprint online and that's where even more insights began to emerge.

-When Madilynn and I sat down in a local Atlanta coffee shop, her insights into moderating a forum and community building left me on the edge of my seat.

-A mini-influencer on Twitter and LinkedIn, Madilynn's straight talk and humorous delivery will leave you inspired, educated, and wanting more. But you'll have to wait until next week for Part II.

-If you are a founder with little to no business operations background or an investor who wants to help founders who fit this profile, this may be the most important interview you hear this week.

Why Interview Madilynn Beck?

  • Madilynn reveals the secrets she used to grow an engaged community for highly specialized professionals.
  • How to start with a lean mindset?
  • As a founder, you'll learn how Madilynn puts users first.
  • As an investor, you will learn crafty ways founders are building not just a following, but an audience.

What Will I Learn From This Episode?

As a founder or emerging fund manager, you'll learn what it takes to avoid crickets among your users and how to get them talking.

Subscribe and Review the #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot.

Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Ranked in the top 15% of podcasts shared globally on Spotify.

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. Who is Madilynn Beckk from the Southside of Chicago?

  1. What is The Better Spot, and which complaints in the wellness space is The Better Spot addressing?

  2. What green flags can help founders win over their community?

Learn how to connect with Madilynn inside Part II of the episode

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Madilynn Beck is founder and CEO of The Better Spot. After a world-rocking healthcare scare, Madilynn sought to change her future wellness experiences, launching a physical space where wellness professionals could invite their clients. As the world shifted, Madilynn expanded her footprint online and that's where even more insights began to emerge.

-When Madilynn and I sat down in a local Atlanta coffee shop, her insights into moderating a forum and community building left me on the edge of my seat.

-A mini-influencer on Twitter and LinkedIn, Madilynn's straight talk and humorous delivery will leave you inspired, educated, and wanting more. But you'll have to wait until next week for Part II.

-If you are a founder with little to no business operations background or an investor who wants to help founders who fit this profile, this may be the most important interview you hear this week.

Why Interview Madilynn Beck?

  • Madilynn reveals the secrets she used to grow an engaged community for highly specialized professionals.
  • How to start with a lean mindset?
  • As a founder, you'll learn how Madilynn puts users first.
  • As an investor, you will learn crafty ways founders are building not just a following, but an audience.

What Will I Learn From This Episode?

As a founder or emerging fund manager, you'll learn what it takes to avoid crickets among your users and how to get them talking.

Subscribe and Review the #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot.

Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Ranked in the top 15% of podcasts shared globally on Spotify.

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. Who is Madilynn Beckk from the Southside of Chicago?

  1. What is The Better Spot, and which complaints in the wellness space is The Better Spot addressing?

  2. What green flags can help founders win over their community?

Learn how to connect with Madilynn inside Part II of the episode

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Johnnie Turnage is the founder of EvenScore, an impact-focused donation platform that provides a safe and trusted space for small-dollar donors to support the causes and candidates most important to them and the communities they call home.

In this special episode, we sit down with a spirited husband and wife team.

Johnnie is accompanied by his wife and Senior Program Manager, Alexa Turnage, who together provide an honest look into their ascension as community organizers within Detroit's tech startup ecosystem.

In this episode, JohnnieandAlexateach us how to make the most of high profile tech startup events like SXSW, and where opportunities lie with your advisors you may not expect.

We visited Detroit, where the Turnage's took us through the city's organizing hot spots to showcase why Detroit could be the startup ecosystem you want to keep paying attention to this decade.

Subscribe and Review the #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot.

Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

See you inside…

Wefunder: https://wefunder.com/evenscore
Website: https://evenscore.us/
LinkedIn (Johnnie): https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnie-turnage-81520559/
LinkedIn (Alexa): https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexa-turnage-57a7a86a/

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John Roussel is co-founder of Colorwave, a careers startup making the innovation economy more equitable and inclusive by providing leaders of color access to VC-backed startups.

John joins board member Leandrew Robinson, who teamed up in 2020 to help young leaders transition from their corporate jobs into high-potential startup roles, regardless of technical backgrounds.

In this episode, John and Leandrew reveal the professional benefits of working in younger companies, and the implications for your financial future. You'll smile at some of their insider stories as they bring their Berkeley flair into the Diverse Tech Founders Media CA studio.

Subscribe and Review the #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot.

Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

See you inside…

Website (Apply):https://www.thecolorwave.org/
LinkedIn (John) : https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-j-roussel/
LinkedIn (Leandrew): https://www.linkedin.com/in/leandrew-robinson-b679079/details/experience/

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Patrick Bentley is a self-taught developer-turned angel investor with a unique brain and ability to tell captivating stories. He's also a Googler.

We often get questions about how to start angel investing, especially the when, the how and the why of it.

Patrick covers them all in part I of this conversation, with the ultimate mix of brilliance and humour.

As background, Patrick began his foray into technology building websites near the ports of Savannah, and when he merged his coding prowess with his innate business acumen in how to turn one dollar into two, he began launching full scale growth businesses. Today, Patrick is a developer at Google and an active angel investor with its Black Angel Group.

If there's one message Patrick and I want to get across to you in this episode, its that you can do it too.

We even discuss Patrick's cultural roots in the Gullah Islands.

As a founder or angel investor, you'll learn what an angel like Patrick looks for in not just opportunities, but in human beings.

Join us for a special conversation with Patrick Bentley, providing that added motivation you need with practical tips you can leverage to succeed.

Subscribe today to #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot. Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Join us on our journey to earn 50 ratings on iTunes and Spotify!

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. What do founders get from you being on their cap table?
2. What is the Black Angel Group (at Google)?
3. What are you looking for in investments?

Connect with Patrick Bentley using the links below:

Patrick Bentley
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-bentley/

Black Angel Group
Website: https://www.blackangelgroup.com/

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Daryl Holman Jr. is a front end developer and founder of Revival.

One headline that never seems to go away for too long is the topic of “student loans”.

Student loans are a trillion dollar industry.

Daryl, after designing pitch decks for founders to give them a face lift, started launching software of his own. Today, Daryl wants to knock out his student loans, and help you do it too.

If you are looking to improve your underlying skills in design and front end development, this episode has a step-by-step process sprinkled throughout.

We even discuss Daryl’s key network introduction that changed everything.

As a founder, you'll learn the characteristics exceptional founders need when breaking into New York City.

Join us for a special conversation with founder, Daryl Holman Jr., providing that added motivation you need with practical tips you can leverage to succeed.

Subscribe today to #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot. Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Join us on our journey to earn 50 ratings on iTunes and Spotify!

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. How to move to New York City?
2. How do you make money?
3. What design resources you can use to become a resourceful front end developer.

Connect with Daryl Holman Jr. using the links below:

Daryl Holman Jr.
LinkedIn: https. ://www.linkedin.com/in/darylholmanjr
Medium: https://medium.com/@justdaryl

Revival
LinkedIn: https://www.revivalfunds.com/

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Chase Ross Emanuel is an ecosystem builder and venture scout for Lightspeed Venture Partners.

After a few years of insightful conversations, Chase shares some of his most keen insights on what it takes to go from idea to a viable venture backable solution, putting customers first.

If you are a nonptechnical founder, how do you find a builder? As a diverse founder, should you link up with a venture studio? We discuss these topics and so much more.

Chase is a former Carta employee with a wealth of knowledge to share after nearly a decade in NYC’s tech ecosystem. You’ll learn how to save time, cash and momentum from this 45 minute conversation on our recent return to NYC.

If you are building, learn what it takes to get a $1M check and why there may be a preferable path to generating the good life.

You can listen to the extended episode exclusively on the Diverse Tech Founders Patreon starting October 1st.

Join us for a special conversation with Chase Ross Emanuel, providing that added motivation you need with practical tips you can leverage to succeed.

Subscribe today to #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot. Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Join us on our journey to earn 50 ratings on iTunes and Spotify!

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. How to hire a technical lead?
2. Who cuts and receives $1M checks?
3. When is the best time to link with a venture studio?

Connect with Chase Ross Emanuel using the links below:

Chase Ross Emanuel
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chaseemanuel

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Brandon Harris is a co-founder of Votus.

Some folks are born for politics, you could say. In today's social tech era, that includes startup founders and VCs too.

Brandon earned his stripes early speaking publicly in church services and community halls. Today, Brandon is helping to keep democracy thriving amidst the social revolution.

If you are an avid social media user looking to connect with politicians online, you'll want to join us for a conversation that marries founder stories with VC experience. We even discuss Brandon's presidential chops during our alma mater days at Howard University.

As a founder, you'll learn characteristics exceptional startup teams need (from a VC who's been there).

Votus is a communications platform that helps organizations build relationships with persuadable audiences through 1:1 interaction across multiple digital channels.

Join us for a special conversation with co-founder, Brandon Harris, providing that added motivation you need with practical tips you can leverage to succeed.

Subscribe today to #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot. Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Join us on our journey to earn 50 ratings on iTunes and Spotify!

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. How did you break into VC as a founder?
2. What do you look for in a co-founder?
3. Do you want to run a billion dollar company?

Connect with Brandon Harris and Votus using the links below:

Brandon Harris
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-harris-13304782/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bharris51/?hl=en

Votus
Website: https://www.votus.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/VotusInc
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/votusinc

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Jordan Wilson is a co-founder of Politicking.

When your mother is a politician, you grow up in the electoral game. Knocking on doors between school and dinner was a normal day for Jordan, who now helps others learn in minutes what she's been studying for a lifetime.

If you are a registered voter (or know someone who could be) you'll want to join us for what turned out to a funnier episode than we had planned. We even discuss some of the local happenings from over the course of our collegiate years.

As a founder, you'll learn how to leverage your personal network for growth and the benefits of politicking.

Politicking is a mobile application dedicated to improving & galvanizing the millennial (and Gen Z and alpha) vote by providing information about micro and macro politics.

Join us for a special conversation with another co-founder, Jordan Wilson, who can give you that added motivation and practical tips to succeed.

Subscribe today to #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot. Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Help us get to 50 ratings on iTunes and Spotify!

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. What are you most excited about in Cambridge’s startup ecosystem?
2. What do casual voters get from Politicking you cannot get elsewhere?
3. Do you want to run a billion dollar company (or city)?

Connect with Jordan Wilson and Politicking using the links below:

Jordan Wilson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-wilson-719592120/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jorwilson_/

Politicking
Website: https://politickingapp.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/politickingapp
Instagram: https://instagram.com/politicking/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/politickingtheapp

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Alana Mann is a Principal at Cultivation Capital.

Transitioning from public school to boarding school is no easy flight, unless you have a plan. Alana began discovering her creative spirit then and as a freshman at Vanderbilt University, endeavored to meet as many folks as possible who aligned with her purpose.

If you are an LP looking for a fresh perspective on venture from someone using tried and true methods that work, or a founder searching for a relatable VC where you can soak up the game today, you want to get to know Alana and her inside look at today’s opportunities.

We love novel answers to our typical questions, and Alana does not disappoint, breaking down sales over products and her approach can peel back some of our inherent biases.

Cultivation Capital is a Series A venture capital serving key markets including healthcare and enterprise SaaS.

As you are working out, communing to the office, or just want to learn as you type, join us for a special conversation with a VC marrying style with function.

Subscribe today to #11 Podcast for Startups in 2022 as voted by Feedspot. Checkout the full list here-> https://blog.feedspot.com/startup_podcasts/

Help us get 50 ratings on iTunes and Spotify!

See you inside…

Questions Answered Inside:
1. What are you most excited about in Nashville’s startup ecosystem?
2. How would you build an ideal co-founder team?
3. How would you describe product market fit?

Connect with Alana Mann and Cultivation Capital using the links below:

Alana Mann
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alana-sierra-mann
Instagram: https://instagram.com/itsalanamann?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Website: https://www.alanamann.org/

Cultivation Capital
Website: https://cultivationcapital.com/
Twitter: https://mobile.twitter.com/cultivationcap

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Donovan Wright is a founder of Guilde.

After growing a stones throw away from Hampton University, Donovan found a way to merge his lifelong dream of becoming an artist with his fathers pragmatism in becoming a business person. Donovan strove to be Langston Hughes and eventually traded a pen for a calculator to become one of Detroit's rising tech entrepreneurs.

If you think real estate is a path to financial freedom, not only will you appreciate Donovan's renovation insights, but also his marketing abilities.

Guilde is live in metro-Detroit, with plans to expand throughout Michigan, and beyond.

Pull up a chair for a special conversation with another dynamic person of faith, Donovan Wright, including a local spin on some of our favorite questions.

Learn more and please subscribe today. As always, your leaving a rating helps to ensure episodes like these reach more people like you.

See you inside!

Questions Answered Inside:
1. What are you most excited about in Detroit´s startup ecosystem?
2. What´s the most valuable thing you do for your customers?
3. What is the most profitable piece of advice you have received since building Guilde?

Connect with Donovan Wright and Guilde using the links below:

Donovan Wright
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dgw757/

Guilde
Website: https://tryguilde.com/
Facebook:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tryguilde/

Remember to leave a review on Apple and Spotify to show love.

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JR Robinson is a co-founder of JustMy.

After growing up in Orange Mound (a historically black neighborhood in Memphis), JR became a serial entrepreneur with a penchant for helping others find their identity and live in their life purpose.

If you grew up with a mixed identity, you don't want to miss JR's discussion on how he leveraged his unique circumstances into his greatest triumphs, and why he is so committed to helping others like you raise their voices in networking, at lunch counters and even on stages (including among your cities top business leaders and politicians).

JustMy has finally launching their must-see product, MyCard, a digital business card which allows any user (yes "you") to pull in all of your most valuable press coverage, unique content and fun videos in one place for networking...for free.

You can upgrade to MyCard to access more aesthetic features, and you might even take JustMy up on its motto to "Grab MyCard."

Pull up a chair for a special conversation with a seasoned Dadpreneur, JR Robinson, includinghis comedic take on so many topics.

Learn more and please subscribe today. As always, your leaving a rating helps to ensure episodes like these reach more people like you.

See you inside!

Questions Answered Inside:
1. Why do we need a digital business card anyway?
2. Given JustMy is in 180+ markets, which startup ecosystem would you move to (other than Silicon Valley)?
3. What are you most excited about in Memphis's burgeoning startup ecosystem?

Connect with JR Robinson and JustMy using the links below:

JR Robinson
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justmymemphis/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EvolutionofJR

JustMy
Website: https://justmy.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getJustMy/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/justmy/

Remember to leave a review on Apple and Spotify to show love.

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Dr. Jalaal Hayes is the founder of Elyte Energy.

After graduating high school at age 15 and obtaining two bachelors at age 18, Dr. Jah (the "whiz kid") is on a mission to clean up your atmosphere using a controversial energy source: hydrogen.

Dr. Jah is laser focused on building clean tech products using applied chemistry ⚛️ principles for a more sustainable energy grid, including hydrogen storage and batteries. Dr. Jah knew something had to change nearly ten years ago and decided to study under some of the top OGs at the most prestigious Historically Black Colleges and Universities in the United States to grow Elyte Energy into a clean tech juggernaut.

Elyte Energy is still early in its development, yet Dr. Jah's research is crystal clear, hydrogen IS a “safe” and reliable force to be reckoned with in the battle for a more sustainable energy grid around the world.

Pull up a chair for a rare lesson with Dr. Jah and his characteristically fly Philly accent to discover more about Dr. Jalaal Hayes and Elyte Energy.

Learn more and please subscribe. See you inside the episode!

Questions Answered Inside:
1. What the heck is applied chemistry?
2. Is hydrogen storage safe?
3. What do customers get from
Elyte Energy you can't get anywhere else?

Connect with Dr. Jah and Elyte Energy using the links below:

Dr. Jalaal Hayes
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjah/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/drjahayes
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjahayes/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjahayes92
Personal website: https://www.drjalaalhayes.com/

Elyte Energy
Website: https://www.elyteenergy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elyteenergy/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elite-energy-llc1/about/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elyteenergy/

Remember to Subscribe and Leave a Review on Apple and Spotify to show love.

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Abbey Wemimo is cofounder of Esusu.

Taking out a loan with 400% interest after immigrating to the United States, Minnesota specifically, is a heralding experience.

Abbey and his hyper-focused co-founder, Samir Goel, decided to build a company around their experiences accessing credit as America’s newest immigrants. They knew something had to change and persevered from a 1.6M Series A in November 2019 to a 130M Series B, valuing Esusu at $1B.

Esusu’s success is genuinely inspiring that we can all celebrate, after 300 investors said “no” Abbey remained resolute in their mission and they aren’t stopping at $1B.

Learn more and please subscribe. See you inside the episode!

Take a peak to discover more about Abbey Wemimo and Esusu.

Questions Answered Inside:
1. Would childhood Abbey be friends with Abbey today?
2. What lessons do you have for others approaching unicorn status?
3. ?

Connect with Abbey and Esusu using the links below:Abbey's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbey-wemimo-62382a2a?trk=public_profile_browsemap

Esusu
Website: http://esusurent.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myesusu/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/10778599/admin/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myesusu/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/getesusu?lang=en

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Leigh-Ann is a writer, strategist, and sought after advisor on strategies for building REDI (racially equitable, diverse and inclusive) tech and innovation ecosystems and organizational culture.

Fortune 500 Experience
She has supported innovation and technology leaders at Fortune 500 companies including Google, Facebook, Delta, P&G Ventures, AirBnB, HSBC and UBS.

Founder Experience
As a founder, she has launched ventures from concept to scale, raised seven figure philanthropic investments and designed partnerships and platforms to connect innovators, young leaders and communities with the capital and opportunities necessary to take their impact to the next level.

Venture Café Miami

Most notably, as the founding Executive Director of Venture Café Miami. She led the organization to exponential growth and impact to serve 55,000 innovators and establish 1000+ content partnerships with national and global organizations over a 5 year period.

Nyah Project
Leigh-Ann is also the founder of the Nyah Project, which bridges systemic opportunity gaps through transformative leadership fellowships abroad and tech enabled college access coaching for disadvantaged youth of colour. Under her leadership 100 % of Nyah Fellows attend college and over 90% win scholarships — accumulating over $10 million in scholarships since 2014.

Learn more once you download and subscribe. See you inside the episode!

Take a peak to discover more about Leigh-Ann, Aīre Ventures and Nyah Project.

Questions Answered Inside:
1. Would childhood Leigh-Ann be friends with Leigh-Ann today?
2. What is a Venture Studio and how is
Aīre Ventures different?
3. What are you most excited about in Miami's venture and startup ecosystem?

Connect with Leigh-Ann, Aīre Ventures and Nyah Project using the links below:

Aīre Ventures: https://www.aireventures.org/Leigh-Ann: https://www.leighannbuchanan.com/about-2
Leigh-Ann's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighannbuchanan/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aire_ventures
Medium: https://leighannbuchanan.medium.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leighann.buchanan/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aireventures/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxbUbepbwTSOdZwGJadbfIQ

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Nassir Criss is an Associate at Sixty8 Capital and Venture for America Fellow.

Underrepresented founders (including black founders) of all types are top of mind with "Nas".

After watching a company accept it's first large check, Nassir wen from being an observer to a doer.

Nas is now one of VCs rising personal brands and work horses, uniquely positioned to talk about the reality of bootstrapping as a startup founder and so much more.

Learn more once you download and subscribe. See you inside the episode!

Take a peak to discover more about Nassir Criss, Sixty8 Capital and Venture for America.

Questions Answered Inside:
1. Would childhood Nas be friends with Nas today?
2. Is bootstrapping in VC still cool?
3. Do customers and clients want education (or just the answer)?

Connect with Nassir and Sixty8 Capital using the links below:Website: https://www.sixty8.capital/
Nassir's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nassir-criss-b048a4120/
Nassir's Email: nassir@sixty8.capital
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nassircriss/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sixty8capital
Venture for America Fellowship: https://ventureforamerica.org/

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Madison Long and Simon May are the founders of Clutch, a fast-growing college tech company connecting you to the best services students have to offer. Students come first with Clutch and brands are able to find side hustlers more easily.

Madison and Simone have been friends since their days at Purdue University, and are uniquely positioned to talk about the reality of success after two prior businesses, including the impact of being zealously customer-focused, and the immense opportunities in one of the hottest venture capital markets in the south: Houston, TX. Having lived in other startup ecosystems, the Clutch team covers several cities and why they ultimately may have found a home in the largest port city in the Lone Star State.

Pick up more invaluable lessons from a dynamic duo that will leave you re-thinking your approach to both business and culture.

Take a peak inside this week's episode and learn more about Madison Long, Simone May and Clutch!

Questions Answered Inside:
1. As a CTO, did you have to have a "prove them wrong mentality" to succedd?
2. If you were building a co-founder from scratch, what's the perfect recipe?
3. With hundreds of options of vinyl album covers to choose from, which artist most inspires the work that you do?

Connect with Simone and Madison using the links below:
Website: https://www.thatsclutch.com/
Madison's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/madisonlong5/
Simone's Email: simone@thatsclutch.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatsclutch_com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thatsclutch/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thatsclutchcom
Twitter: https://twitter.com/thatsclutch_com
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thatsclutch_com?

Remember to Subscribe and Leave a Review because this helps our rankings more than you know!

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Mark Fleming is one of the founders of Creator Nova, a venture-backable beauty tech company empowering beauty influencers to launch brands simply and swiftly, deploying unique insights from his and his co-founder's global supply chain and business development experiences.

Mark is also uniquely positioned to talk about the impact of Diverse Tech Founders (including our pre-pandemic app launch parties) as one of a handful of guests having attended EVERY D-Tech.Fund app launch party in Harlem from 2019-2020.

I would write down some of Mark's learned in learned and why Creator Nova will be a tech company to watch in 2022.

Take a peak inside this episode and learn more about Mark Fleming and Creator Nova: "Create to Amaze"

Questions Answered Inside
1. Which startup community would you move to (other than Silicon Valley)?
2. What's the most valuable thing Creator Nova does for its customers?
3. Which artist most inspires the work that you do (the answer might surprise you)?

Connect with Mark Fleming using the link below:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markobonna/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markofleming/
Website: https://www.creatornova.com/

Remember to Subscribe and Leave a Review because this helps our rankings more than you know!

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Paul Owusu is one of the founders of Phreshly Brands, a venture-backable direct to consumer cocktails brand, working with proprietary formulations that fall outside the normal notes and texture you'd expect from a canned drink.

Paul and his other founders, Tai and Ama are aligned, purpose-driven entrepreneurs with unique takes on what makes a brand pop.

Take a peak inside this episode and learn more about Phreshly: "Sophisticated. Naturally Flavorsome. Ready to Savor."

Questions Answered Inside
1. Would younger Paul be friends with Paul today? (learn what our fathers have in common)
2. What do casual drinkers get from Phreshly you cannot get elsewhere?
3. Which artist most inspires the work that you do?

Connect with Paul Owusu using the link below:
Website: https://phreshly.co/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Phreshlyco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phreshly.co/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@phreshly?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Phreshly.co

Remember to Subscribe and Leave a Review because this helps our rankings more than you know!

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Jo Marini is one of the founders of Mother Superior, a venture and impact foundry, working with founders who fall outside the margins of venture capital opportunities and align purpose-driven entrepreneurs with unique and exponential impact models.

Jo's affable spirit and precision execution are expanding access to excellence across the country.

Take a peak inside this episode and learn more about "a funding source with additional resources."

Mother Superior's goal? Real opportunity. Real wealth. Real diversity.

Example Questions
1. Would younger Jo be friends with Jo today?
2. What's the most profitable piece of advice you've ever received?
3. Which artist most inspires the work that you do?

Connect with Jo Marini using the link below:
Website: https://www.mothersuperior.co/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jomarini
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mothersuperior/

Article: https://www.mothersuperior.co/motherlode-jo-marini

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Martel Metellus is one of the founders of Soko, where you can "share lucrative career opportunities with your personal network and get paid thousands by exciting startups looking for new talent."

Martel shares how growing up in Brooklyn has shaped his experience in Salt Lake City, UT.

Take a peak inside this episode and learn more about "a recruiting app that helps you get paid for your recruitment help."

Example Questions
1. Would younger Martel be friends with Martel today?
2. What's the most valuable thing you do for both sides of your two-sided marketplace (typically a challenging proposition)?
3. Do you want to run a billion dollar company?

Connect with Martel Metellus using the link below:
Website: https://www.joinsoko.com/ (Join Soko)

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MartelMetellus?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor (Reach Martel Right Now)
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martelmetellus/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bKnIitsRSrE (Building a Tech Startup)

Remember to Subscribe and Leave a Review because this helps our rankings more than you know!

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Dawn Cornelius is founder of human, "a more human app for those ready for love . . . now."

A local to Nashville, dawn is also a writer, public speaker, consultant, and genuinely invests in humans on a unique level. If you have already found your person, you'll appreciate what Dawn sees as the future of relationships.

Take a peak inside this episode and learn more about "a relationship app that helps you find your person."

1. Which artists most inspire your work?
2. What question would you ask at our app launch parties?
3. Do you want to run a billion dollar company?

Connect with Dawn Cornelius using the link below:
Website (human): https://www.myhumanapp.com/

Website (consulting): https://corneliusgroup.co/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/dcornelius?lang=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corneliusdawn/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MyHumanApp

Remember to Subscribe and Leave a Review because this helps our rankings more than you know!

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Miki Reynolds is co-founder of Grid110. Miki is an ecosystem builder in Los Angeles and is growing the only accelerator where you can tap into her insights, inspiration and network. Take a peak inside this episode and learn more about a community of founders of various backgrounds making a difference.

1. Which artists most inspire your work?
2. What question would you ask at our app launch parties?
3. How do you balance your relationships with growing a successful accelerator?

Connect with Miki Reynolds using the link below:
Website (Grid110): https://www.grid110.org/

Website (Personal): http://www.mikireynolds.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mikster
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikireynolds/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mikster/
Medium: https://medium.com/@mikster

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Deven Hurt is co-founder of Prediction Strike. Deven is first year law student at Harvard Law School and building the only performance based sports stock market where you can buy and sell shares of your favorite athletes with real money. Take a peak inside this episode and learn more about a community of sports enthusiasts making a difference.

1. How does your background make it easier for you to succeed?
2. What question would you ask at our app launch parties?
3. How do you balance being a law student with growing a startup?

Connect with Deven Hurt using the link below:
Website: https://predictionstrike.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/predictstrike
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/predictionstrike/
Instagram (personal): https://www.instagram.com/champagneslopppi/?hl=en
Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/PredictionStrike/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PredictionStrikeSports/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwwfShwEQGt-lFycvl5Wsqg

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Shimite Obialo is founder of the Suites. Shimite was previously a corporate lawyer in NYC and curator of some of the cities premier art events. Take a peak inside this episode and learn more about an exclusive community for executives and entrepreneurs of color, including power players ready to help you grow your startup.

1. How does your background make it easier for you to succeed?
2. What question would you ask at our app launch parties?
3. How does being from Atlanta, give you an advantage in New York's tech startup scene?

Connect with Shimite Obialo using the link below:
Website: https://www.jointhesuites.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/insidethesuites
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/insidethesuites/
Instagram (personal): https://www.instagram.com/shauziland/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/insidethesuites/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/insidethesuites

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Josh Lyles is founder of Salesdash CRM. Josh was previously a sales manager at Tesla and former walk-on basketball player among many talents. Take a peak inside this episode and learn more about Nashville's tech scene, including one of its burgeoning startup founders.

1. Do you want to run a billion dollar company?
2. What question would you ask at our app launch parties?
3. How does being from Atlanta, give you an advantage in Nashville's tech startup scene?

Connect with Josh Lyles using the link below:
Website: https://salesdashcrm.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/jalyles?lang=en
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshlyles/?hl=en
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/salesdashcrm/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshlyles/

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Shalom Osiadi is co-founder of Esca Menu. Shalom has been building tech solutions since college and exploded his network in the last three months, including pitching to high profile investors. Take a peak inside this episode and learn more about the Dublin tech scene.

1. Which artists most inspire your work?
2. If you had to start over and only keep one thing, what would it be?
3. How does being from Dublin, give you an advantage in your local tech startup scene?

Connect with Shalom Osiadi using the link below:
Website: https://escamenu.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iam_shal/?hl=en
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shalom-osiadi-595b2978/?originalSubdomain=ie

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Dr. Mayen Udoetuk is Director, Program and Partner Development at UCSC Silicon Valley Extension. After completing her Education Doctorate and leaving Houston, TX, Dr. Udoetuk is opening pathways for others via UC-Santa Cruz' Silicon Valley Extension courses in topics such as artificial intelligence, python and other career changing skills.

1. Which artists most inspire your work?
2. What would you do with $1,000,000 in funding right now?
3. In what ways does your background make it easier for you to succeed?

Connect with Dr. Mayen Udoetuk using the link below:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-mayen-b-u-1b6b88123/

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Desmond Wiggan is co-founder and CEO of BatteryXchange. After studying and working in China for two years, Desmond and his co-founder decided to return to the States to start a tech company that could change the way we charge our mobile phones.

1. What's the best piece of advice you have received?
2. What would you do with $1,000,000 in funding right now?
3. Do you want to run a billion dollar company, why or why not?

Connect with Desmond Wiggan using the links below:
Website: https://batteryxchange.co/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawjr7/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/WorldWideWiggs_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/worldwidewiggs_/?igshid=dyvbjz1llta8

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Ramzi Abdoch is a computer scientist, inventor, and more importantly a problem solver with a penchant for djaying, sports data and rubik's cubes. After founding several companies while in NYC and years spent consulting in San Francisco, Ramzi is back in one of his two hometowns, Memphis, TN building up the ecosystem that shaped him. Ramzi is a serial founder who is also the winner of the world's first fashion tech hackathon.

1. What's the best piece of advice you have received?
2. What would you do with $1,000,000 in funding right now?
3. Do you want to run a billion dollar company, why or why not?

Connect with Ramzi Abdoch using the links below:
Personal Website: https://www.f6s.com/ramziabdoch
Website: https://www.sharpsports.io/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramziabdoch/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/rmzi
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rmzi/?hl=en

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Dommonic Nelson is the founder of Clev.Tech, a technology company whose current product, YummyBox, is now live in Houston, TX. Dom was the winner of Daymond John's Black Entrepreneur Day pitch competition and owns a patent for the innovative technology that undergirds the YummyBox. With angel backing, Dom has taken Clev.Tech to the next level.

1. Who are YummyBox’s best students?
2. What would you do with $1,000,000 in funding right now?
3. What gives Houston an advantage in its burgeoning local startup scene?

Connect with Dom Nelson using the links below:
Website: https://www.clev.tech/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clevtechhou
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/clev.tech/
Dom Nelson Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dnelson365

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Andy Ayim is the founder of The Angel Investing School, a school for experienced and newly constitute angel investors from around the world. He was a Managing Director of Backstage Capital and has worked in a range of product roles in companies such as Investec Bank and WorldFirst (acquired by Ant Financial for $700m).

1. Who are Angel Investing School’s best students?
2. What would you do with $1,000,000 in funding right now?
3. How does being from London give you an advantage in London’s burgeoning local startup scene?

Resources:
Stay up to date with Andy Ayim: https://andyayim.com/
Apply to Angel Investing School now: https://angelinvestingschool.com/

Connect with Andy Ayim using the links below:
Website: https://angelinvestingschool.com/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/andyayim
Facebook: www.facebook.com/angelinvestingschool
Instagram: www.instagram.com/angelinvestingschool
YouTube: www.youtube.com/andyayim

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Elijah Tyson has been interested in transforming the physical body since being a student at the University of Buffalo. Former CEO of Coldspace LLC. and current founder of The Grind Tribe and Hustle Aesthetic, Elijah leverages technology to engender lifestyle transformations for performance driven individuals using high performing fitness coaching. In this episode, Elijah draws on his prior fitness and entrepreneurial experiences to relay key insights related to high performing entrepreneurs.

1. What’s your product story? How do you make money?
2. Which artist most inspires your work?
3. In what ways does your background make it easier or more difficult to succeed?

Stay in touch with Elijah Tyson at the links below:
Website: www.thegrindtribe.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/thegrindtribe
Instagram: www.instagram.com/thegrindtribe
YouTube: www.youtube.com/elijahtyson

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Netta Jenkins, along with her co-founder, have created a digital safe-place and community for professionals of color to share their workplace experience, whether good, bad, or indifferent through their company: Dipper. Netta was featured in Forbes and a renown leader in business and diverse, equity and inclusion work.

Key Questions Answered
1. How does being from Rhode Island give you an advantage in NYC’s burgeoning local startup scene.
2. If Dipper could only keep one feature, what would it be?
3. Name a pivot that you think saved your company.

Connect with Netta Jenkins using the links below:

Website: www.ourdipper.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/nettajenkins
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/nettajenkins
Instagram: www.instagram.com/nettajenkins
YouTube: www.youtube.com/nettajenkins

Books: Self Advocacy & Confidence for a Fearless Leader

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James Oliver, Jr. is a serial entrepreneur with a purpose to help parent entrepreneurs. Being a parent + entrepreneur is hard, especially if you have young children and are trying to grow revenue to support a family. Being a Black ParentPreneur is even harder. Many are first-generation college graduates and don’t have a relative to call for money that can hold us over until we are able to get enough traction in business. James is an author and continues to run his renown startup WeMontage.

Key Questions Answered
1. What is Parentpreneur Foundation and from where did the idea for Parentpreneur Foundation come?
2. What is Parentpreneur Foundation’s technical solution?
3. How did you prove to investors that your target customers would use Parentpreneur?

Connect with James Oliver, Jr. using the links below:

Website: https://www.parentpreneurfoundation.org/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/jamesoliverjr

Facebook: www.facebook.com/parentpreneurfoundation

Instagram: www.instagram.com/parentpreneurfoundation

YouTube: www.youtube.com/parentpreneurfoundation

Books: The More You Hustle, The Luckier You Get

Further, we generally don't have the social capital to execute our good ideas or even imagine what is possible.

This is why the ParentPreneur Foundation exists. To provide money, tools, resources, and social capital for Black ParentPreneurs. So they can be the best parent and entrepreneur possible. So they can be great spouses/partners and raise delightful children.

This is the ParentPreneur Foundation's contribution to humanity.

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Monica Williams MD is physician and Meharry Medical College graduate who knew she wanted to be the one to start the conversation, make sure that her daughter received accurate information and give her real knowledge to break down the myths, but did not know where to start. As a part of Monica's journey founding and launching RedDrop, she received a lot of personal encouragement knowing that her team would produce great products.

RedDrop provides the products girls need and the support their parents can use, to grow strong women.

Questions with Answers
1. What’s it like as a mother, founder, and businesswoman who is currently developing a product?
2. What is RedDrop’s technical solution that makes its approach distinct?
3. How do you balance creating new products made specifically for young girls with maintaining your existing ecosystems?

Connect with Monica Williams using the links below:

Website: www.tryreddrop.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/reddrop

Facebook: www.facebook.com/reddropco

Instagram: www.instagram.com/reddrop

YouTube: www.youtube.com/reddrop

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Yvonne Bajela is a founding member and partner of ImpactX Capital Partners, a black-led venture capital firm that invests in underrepresented founders with dozens of investments to-date.

Questions with Answers
1. How would you define “early-stage” and do you see this definition continuing to change?
2. What would you do with £100,000,000 in funding right now?
3. What’s the most profitable piece of advice you’ve gotten since you first started building ImpactX Capital Partners?

Connect with [guest] using the links below:

Website: www.impactxcapital.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/impactxcapital

Facebook: www.facebook.com/impactxcapitalpartners

Instagram: www.instagram.com/impactxcapitalpartners

YouTube: www.youtube.com/impactxcapitalpartners

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Mandy Nyarko, co-founder of Startup Discovery School can teach you viable business principles to grow your company. If you're looking for help taking your idea from lightbulb moment to sound business model, consider applying to Startup Discovery School today. Discover how a new incubator and accelerator is changing the way startups use VC office hours. A venture capital investor, Mandy has helped countless businesses reach their potential (and beyond).

A Few Questions with Notable Answers:
1. How does being from (London) give you an advantage in (London’s) burgeoning local startup scene?
2. If London’s startup ecosystem could only keep one unique feature, what would that be?
3. Can you name a pivot that you think saved your career?

Connect with Mandy Nyarko using the links below:

Website: www.startupdiscoveryschool.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/startupdiscoveryschool

Facebook: www.facebook.com/startupdiscoveryschool

Instagram: www.instagram.com/startupdiscoveryschool

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Charlton Cunningham is a leading startup ecosystem builder in the Southeast United States and Ecosystem Program Manager at HBCUvc. Atlanta's venture capital has reportedly reached $1B and Charlton has a pulse on the local startup scene. Relationships are important and Charlton uses his know-how to help HBCU students get a leg up in the venture capital world.

Questions with Answers
1. Why HBCUs?
2. What would you do with $1,000,000 in funding right now?
3. What’s the most profitable piece of advice you’ve gotten since you first started building ecosystems?

Connect with Charlton using the links below:

Website: www.hbcuvc.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/hbcuvc

Instagram: www.instagram.com/hbcuvc

YouTube: www.youtube.com/hbcuvc

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Eddie Armstrong is a hometown hero, former lobbyist and former Arkansas State Representative. After founding Cannabis Capital Group, Eddie is using his regulatory knowledge in an effort to make cannabis financing more accessible. A leader of the community, Eddie provides insight into the inner workings of his shift from politics to finance.

Questions with Answers
1. Tell us about your tech background?
2. What is Cannabis Capital Group and from where did the idea for Cannabis Capital Group come?
3. What is Cannabis Capital Group’s technical solution?

Connect with Eddie Armstrong using the links below:

Website: https://www.thecannabiscapitalgroup.com/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/cannabiscapitalgroup

Instagram: www.instagram.com/cannabiscapitalgroup

YouTube: www.youtube.com/cannabiscapitalgroup

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Judith Lola and Elizabeth Bleggs have keen insights into how to bring a traditionally brick and mortar industry into the digital world. Efitter is tackling a huge problem in the fashion tech industry: waste from returns by customers who received the wrong fitting garment.

Questions with Answers
1. Who are Efitter’s best customers?
2. What’s it like pitching your product while working a demanding day job (and having a family)?
3. Why did you bring on a co-founder to tackle this problem?

Connect with Judith and Elizabeth using the links below:

Website: https://www.efitterapp.com/

Twitter: www.twitter.com/efitter

Instagram: www.instagram.com/efitter

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Christina Blacken, founder of The New Quo, provides practical advice for budding and experienced entrepreneurs to share their stories.

Questions with Answers

1. What is your superpower (real and imagined)?
2. How much money should an entrepreneur have before they quit their job?
3. What would you do with $1,000,000 in funding right now?

Connect with Christina using the links below:

Website: https://www.thenewquo.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/thenewquo

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thenewquo

Instagram: www.instagram.com/thenewquo

YouTube: www.youtube.com/thenewquo

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Jovante Ham is co-founder and CEO of Melanoid Exchange, one of Houston bourgeoning startups and combines e-commerce with online booking "to help entrepreneurs of color connect with the world". They have an app on IOS and Android you can download today. Since growing up as a young kid in Fort Lauderdale, Jovante Ham has taken the lessons he learned growing up in a tough community to become founder and CEO of Melanoid Exchange, a.k.a. The Hood Scholar. This former aerospace engineer is tackling one of the largest target acquisition markets we have explored so far: E-commerce.

Listen to Jovante explain from his kitchen table how his business model is transforming small business owner's sales from New York City to Houston and ofcourse, back home in Broward County, FL. Melanoid Exchange is one of Houston bourgeoning startups and combines e-commerce with online booking "to help entrepreneurs of color connect with the world". They have an app on IOS and Android you can download today.

Questions with Answers
1. What would you do with $1,000,000 in funding right now?

2. Do you want to run a billion dollar company?

3. What’s the most valuable thing Melanoid Exchange does for its customers?

Connect with Jovante using the links below:

Website: https://melanoidexchange.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShopDownloadME

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melanoidexchange/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melanoidexchange/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/melanoidexchange

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Alex Batdorf is the founder of Get Sh!t Done, an accelerator that helps women scale their business to $1M in Annual Recurring Revenue. After successfully exiting a tech startup shortly after graduating from the University of Chicago, Alex has been growing a community of founders around one idea: gaining traction.

Questions with Answers
1. Can you compare NYC’s local startup scene to other emerging startup hubs in the U.S. (and around the world)?
2. What would you do with $1M+ in no strings attached funding right now?
3. Which artist most inspires your work?
4. How does being from Seattle give you an advantage in NYC’s burgeoning local startup scene?

Connect with Alex Batdorf using the links below:

Website: https://www.shegetsshitdone.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlexBatdorf

Medium: https://medium.com/@alexbatdorf

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getshitdonequeen/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/getshitdone

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-batdorf-88a64512/

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Calvin Williams, Jr.: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calvinwilliamsjr/

Freeman Capital: https://freemancapital.co/

App Launch Party Recap: https://newyork.justmy.com/post/viewpost/5-Things-I-Learned-Hosting-a-Startup-Showcase-for-Freeman-Capital/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrnoPAuzpkU&t=4s

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Kike Oniwinde: https://www.kikeoniwinde.com/

BYP Network: https://byp-network.com/

Guardian Articles:
1) https://www.theguardian.com/careers/2020/jan/06/linkedin-for-black-professionals-the-job-site-tackling-racial-bias
2) https://guardian.ng/guardian-woman/we-need-more-women-in-technology-the-tech-industry-is-the-future-kike-oniwinde-ceo-byp-network/

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YouTube Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GGxnzueBdo

HBCUvc 31 under 31: https://blog.hbcu.vc/hbcuvcs-31-under-31-the-future-of-venture-capital-280f391f766f

Village Micro Fund: https://www.villagemicrofund.com/aboutus

Nathan Jones IV: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-jones-67386366/

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Website: www.d-tech.fund

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcdTc0lec00lH-DotA5agzA?view_as=subscriber

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/diversetechfounders/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Diverse-Tech-Founders-100472864825234/