The Flywheel: Recent Episodes

The Flywheel

Set your life in motion! We talk about a wide range of topics that can help move the needle in your life. We discuss real perspectives with a variety of people to help you navigate your own path or learn something new! Join our regular discussions about passive income, personal development, lifestyle choices and other subjects that can bring positive impact to your life.

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Revolutionizing Employee Management: Kevin's Vision for Canadian SMBs with Humi – In this episode of Pitch Please, Mike Thibodeau sits down with Kevin, founder of Humi, to explore the all-in-one platform transforming employee management for Canadian businesses. Kevin shares his entrepreneurial journey from humble beginnings, running side hustles in high school to leading a venture-backed, YC-graduated startup. Humi simplifies employment management for Canadian small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), covering payroll, HR, onboarding, offboarding, and performance management—all in one. Kevin dives into the problem-solving mentality that led to Humi’s creation and why focusing on Canadian businesses has been the key to their growth.

Kevin explains why the employee experience matters more than ever, and how Humi’s features—from automated payroll to benefits integration—are designed to save companies time and mitigate risk.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, business owner, or someone looking to hear a great Canadian founder story, this episode provides valuable insights and solutions for building a business that is simplifying payroll, HR, and employee management.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Kevin’s Entrepreneurial Background: How his early hustle and entrepreneurial spirit shaped his journey to building Humi.

• The Importance of Employee Management: Kevin breaks down why effective payroll, onboarding, and HR are crucial for company success.

• How Humi Solves SMB Challenges: Discover how Humi’s all-in-one platform tackles everything from payroll compliance to employee performance tracking.

• Why Focus on Canadian SMBs: Kevin explains why Humi’s platform is built specifically for the nuances of the Canadian market.

Key Takeaways:

• The Employee Management Solution: Kevin discusses how Humi integrates payroll, HR, benefits, and more to create a seamless experience for businesses.

• Tailored to Canadian Businesses: With a focus on Canadian companies, Humi’s platform provides solutions designed specifically for Canada’s employment landscape.

• Innovative Solutions: Features like the newly launched SR&ED automation for R&D tax credit claims further streamline operations for growing businesses.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Kevin and Humi

02:54 - Kevin's Entrepreneurial Journey

05:45 - The Birth of Humi

09:04 - Understanding the Employee Management Landscape

12:00 - Humi's Unique Value Proposition

14:47 - Navigating the Canadian Market

18:07 - Challenges and Triumphs in Building Humi

20:59 - The Importance of Trust in Business

24:10 - AI's Role in Employee Management

26:59 - Future Innovations and Product Development

29:49 - Closing Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs

More About Kevin

Kevin Kliman is the CEO and a cofounder of Humi, the leading best-in-one employment solution for Canadian businesses. He’s passionate about enriching Canada’s tech talent pool, reinvesting back into the community, and helping Canadian companies take better care of their people. Kevin has always had an entrepreneurial spirit, using it to continue driving Humi’s journey of building the infrastructure of Canada’s economy alongside 140+ Humigos

More About Humi

Humi is the leading employment platform for Canadian businesses. We know running a business is more than just paperwork and tasks – we make it easy to care for businesses and those who bring them to life. We’re the best choice for supporting Canadian businesses in being better employers with payroll, HR, benefits and SR&ED. To learn more about Humi, visit humi.ca

Want to Connect?

Looking to streamline your employee management processes? Visit Humi to see how they can help with payroll, HR, and compliance needs for Canadian businesses. Stay updated on Kevin’s journey and the latest innovations by following Humi through their website and LinkedIn.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/humi-hr/

Website: https://www.humi.ca/

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Empowering Female Founders: Closing the Funding Gap and Leveraging Resources – In this episode of Rocket Fuel, we five deep into the funding challenges faced by female founders with Landon Steele, founder of Steele Consulting Group. Landon shares her insights on the barriers to securing venture capital for women-led startups and practical ways to overcome them. Despite data showing that female-led companies are more profitable, only 2% of VC funding goes to all-female founding teams. Landon discusses how women can access non-dilutive funding, find supportive networks, and position themselves for growth. She highlights the role of peer support, incubators, and diverse investor pools in changing this narrative.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

  • The Gender Funding Gap: The challenges female founders face in securing VC funding, and how to break down the barriers.
  • Strategies for Success: From joining incubators to accessing non-dilutive funding, Landon outlines actionable steps for women founders.
  • Empowering Female Investors: Discover how programs like Women's Equity Lab and Startup Investors Lab are empowering women to become angel investors.
  • Key Resources for Female Founders: Landon lists several more resources and links to the sources for all the statistics she mentions in this podcast episode in her recent blog post here.

Key Takeaways:

  • Women-Led Companies Perform: Female-led startups are more profitable and socially responsible, yet they receive only 2% of VC funding. Learn why female founders are a strong investment opportunity.
  • Bridging the Gender Funding Gap: Increasing diversity among investors can lead to more equitable funding for women entrepreneurs.
  • Actionable Resources

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction and Welcome

01:30 – Landon’s Journey: From Biotech to Consulting for Female Founders

04:47 – The Gender Funding Gap: Why Only 2% of VC Funding Goes to Female Founders

08:30 – Why Women-Led Startups Outperform: Data Behind the Profitability

12:50 – Bridging the Gap: The Importance of Diverse Investors in VC

18:13 – Key Resources for Female Founders: Incubators, Mentorship, and Funding

25:30 – Pathway to Silicon Valley: How to Get Silicon Valley Ready

27:58 – Show Her the Money Watch Parties: Supporting Female Founders

36:25 – Final Thoughts and Advice

More About Landon

Landon Steele, founder of Steele Consulting Group, is an innovative senior executive with over 30 years of experience in healthcare and biotech. She helps startups become "Silicon Valley Ready" by offering fractional COO services, advisory expertise, and business development consulting. Landon is an experienced angel investor and co-founder of the Startup Investors Lab, with a diverse portfolio of early-stage investments. She also serves on the board of the Canadian Women’s Network, helping Canadian female founders access Bay Area resources.

Resources Overview for Female Founders

  • Pathway to Silicon Valley⁠: Helping Canadian women founders scale internationally. Event in Palo Alto, Nov. 18-20.
  • Show Her the Money⁠: Watch parties for this documentary on women entrepreneurs are happening in Vancouver and San Francisco.
  • Women's Equity Lab⁠: A growing network of women investors managing a growing portfolio of companies, with 76% led by women.
  • Spring Impact Capital⁠: Supporting underestimated founders through programs like⁠ Right Fit Capital⁠ and the⁠ 2025 Women-Led Impact Investor Challenge⁠.

The Call to Action

Follow Landon on LinkedIn for announcements about the Show Her the Money watch parties. Sign up for her mailing list at www.steeleconsultinggroup.com for more resources. Interested in angel investing? Check out Startup Investors Lab or Women's Equity Lab. Landon is available for panels, speaking, or as an advisor—reach out for a free consultation and a 20% discount by mentioning Pitch Please!

Want to Connect?

Email: landon@steeleconsultinggroup.com

Website: steeleconsultinggroup.com

LinkedIn: Landon Steele

Twitter: Landon Steele - Twitter

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Revolutionizing Retail with Intelligent Solutions: The Story Behind Meerby – In this episode of Pitch Please, Mike Thibodeau speaks with Allan and Elizabeth, sibling co-founders of Meerby, an intelligent retail solution transforming the in-store customer experience. Drawing from their deep-rooted experience in the retail industry, Allan and Elizabeth developed Meerby to address common pain points in retail operations by optimizing staff deployment through real-time customer needs and data analytics. Discover how their passion for retail and innovation led to the creation of a solution now implemented in Canadian Tire and Tim Horton’s stores.In This Episode, You’ll Learn:• The Origin of Meerby: How growing up in the retail industry inspired Allan and Elizabeth to co-found Meerby, a tech solution designed to improve both customer and staff experiences in retail environments.• How Meerby Enhances Retail Operations: Meerby’s intelligent help button system uses advanced algorithms to optimize staff deployment, improving customer service and boosting staff morale by ensuring the right person is in the right place at the right time.• Data-Driven Decision Making: Learn how Meerby provides retail managers with real-time analytics and insights, helping them make informed decisions to improve store performance.Key Takeaways:• Innovative Retail Technology: Meerby is designed by retailers, for retailers, ensuring the technology works seamlessly from day one to address common operational challenges.• Empowering Staff, Not Replacing Them: Meerby’s solution focuses on enhancing human interaction in retail by supporting staff, rather than replacing them, in creating meaningful customer engagements.• Real-Time Benefits: With implementation in Canadian Tire and Tim Horton’s, Meerby has proven to improve key metrics like customer satisfaction and sales by ensuring staff is deployed more efficiently.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction and Welcome01:30 – Allan and Elizabeth’s Background: Growing Up in Retail04:16 – Inspiration Behind Meerby: From Retail Pain Points to a Tech Solution08:43 – How the Intelligent Help Button Works12:11 – Creating a Better Experience for Customers and Staff17:16 – Real-Time Analytics for Retail Managers21:10 – Scaling Meerby to Other Retail and Restaurant Sectors26:30 – Unique Features of Meerby: Staff and Customer Empowerment33:50 – Advice for Entrepreneurs: Lessons Learned from Building Meerby41:24 – Final Thoughts and Future Plans for MeerbyMore About AllanAs the co-founder and president of Meerby and DynamicCXS, Allan has over two decades of experience leading retail teams at Canadian Tire. Passionate about innovation and enhancing the customer experience, Allan believes in the power of modern technology to support, rather than replace, retail staff. Through Meerby, he is focused on helping retailers optimize their operations and improve customer satisfaction.More About ElizabethElizabeth is the co-founder of Meerby and director of business operations at Canadian Tire. Growing up in a family business, she is dedicated to creating meaningful retail experiences for both customers and staff. Her leadership and operational expertise have been instrumental in designing Meerby’s technology to improve retail efficiency and staff engagement.More About MeerbyMeerby is an intelligent retail solution that uses advanced algorithms and real-time data analytics to optimize staff deployment and improve the in-store customer experience. Deployed in Canadian Tire and Tim Horton’s stores, Meerby is scalable to various retail and restaurant environments, enhancing customer service and boosting store performance. Want to Connect?Website: www.meerby.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/meerby/Want to get Involved?Look for Meerby in a retailer near you! If you know someone looking to enhance customer experience or streamline retail operations, reach out for a live demo today.

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HR Strategy for Startups: Building People-First Foundations with HRX Connect – In this episode of Rocket Fuel on the Pitch Please podcast, Mike Thibodeau speaks with Farial Karbasi, founder of HRXconnect, a fractional HR and recruitment firm that specializes in helping startups and SMBs build high-performing teams and strong company cultures. With over eight years of experience in HR and a passion for empowering businesses, Farial shares how she has developed proven frameworks to help organizations grow sustainably while tackling complex HR challenges.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

  • The Importance of Fractional HR for Startups: How owner-operated businesses can leverage HR expertise to attract top talent, strengthen teams, and achieve long-term growth. Farial discusses why relying on finance or other departments to manage HR is no longer practical once a business reaches a certain stage.
  • Navigating Complex Employment Issues: From compliance to workplace policies, HRXconnect provides hands-on support and strategic guidance, helping businesses build a solid HR foundation that allows them to thrive.
  • Real-World Examples: Hear how startups and SMBs have worked with HRXconnect to create HR strategies that fit their needs, ultimately improving employee retention, engagement, and overall company culture.
  • HRXconnect’s Tailored Approach: Farial explains how her company acts as an extension of a client’s business by providing HR expertise at a fraction of the cost of an in-house team. Whether businesses need a custom HR audit, recruitment help, or long-term HR support, HRXconnect offers the flexibility to scale as businesses grow.

Key Takeaways:

  • When to Start Thinking About HR: Startups should consider implementing HR solutions as early as five employees to avoid legal missteps, ensure compliance, and improve employee satisfaction.
  • Building a People-First Culture: Farial highlights the importance of HR in fostering inclusive environments, developing workplace policies, and building a long-term strategy for business success.
  • Custom, Scalable Solutions: HRXconnect tailors its HR strategies to each business’s unique needs, providing project-based or ongoing support as required.

If you're an SMB or startup looking to enhance your HR strategy, tune in to learn how fractional HR services can help you grow a high-performing team and company culture.

Chapters:00:00 – Introduction and Overview
02:44 – Farial’s Founder Journey and HRX Connect's Origin
05:41 – HR for Startups: Why It’s Critical to Start Early
07:47 – What HRX Connect Can Help With: Onboarding, Policies, Legal Compliance
10:43 – Custom Solutions: How HRX Connect Supports Businesses of All Sizes
19:35 – Key HR Challenges and How to Address Them
25:32 – Exciting Developments at HRX Connect
29:00 – Advice for Founders: Why Investing in HR Early Pays Off

More About Farial Karbasi
Farial Karbasi, founder of HRXconnect, has spent the past 8 years helping businesses create stronger, higher-performing teams by developing proven HR frameworks. Her mission is to support startups and SMBs by providing them with the HR expertise they need to thrive, without the overhead of an in-house team. HRXconnect offers flexible, fractional HR services designed to grow alongside businesses.

More About HRXconnect
HRXconnect works with owner-operated businesses that have reached the stage where a strong HR foundation is essential to attract and retain top talent. Specializing in custom HR strategies, HRXconnect offers hands-on support with compliance, recruitment, policy development, and more, helping businesses build a thriving workforce and long-term success.

Want to Get Involved?
Ready to take your HR strategy to the next level? Book your free 15-minute consultation with HRXconnect today and get 10% off fractional HR services for 3 months or 50% off an HR audit. Let’s discuss how we can support your business!

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Leveraging Marketplaces and Reseller Channels for SaaS Growth – In this episode of Rocket Fuel on the Pitch Please podcast, Mike Thibodeau is joined by Alexandre Pascal from WeTransact to discuss how SaaS companies can strategically use marketplaces like Microsoft, Google, and Amazon, along with reseller channels, to accelerate growth. If you’ve ever wondered when and how to tap into these sales ecosystems, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you make informed decisions and maximize your SaaS product’s reach.

In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

• Marketplaces and Reseller Channels Explained: Discover what software marketplaces (like Microsoft Azure Marketplace) and reseller channels are and how they function differently from B2C app stores.

• When to Leverage Marketplaces: Understand the best timing for SaaS startups to start using marketplaces and resellers as part of their growth strategy, especially once they have market fit.

• The Benefits of Marketplace Listings: Learn how marketplaces can shorten your sales cycle, expand your customer base, and help you leverage pre-negotiated budgets.

• Real-World Case Studies: Hear examples of SaaS companies that have used marketplaces and reseller channels to drive millions in revenue by scaling through partnerships.

• How WeTransact Can Simplify Integration: Discover how WeTransact helps SaaS companies integrate into marketplaces in just five days, compared to the typical six-month technical process.

If you’re a founder or sales leader at a SaaS company looking to expand your market reach and shorten sales cycles, this episode provides invaluable tips for integrating marketplaces and resellers into your go-to-market strategy.

Key Takeaways:

• Accelerating Growth Through Marketplaces: SaaS companies can fast-track sales and conversions by integrating into marketplaces, leveraging existing customer relationships of hyperscalers like Microsoft.

• Reseller Channels for Scale: Utilizing resellers allows SaaS vendors to reach a wider audience while reducing customer acquisition costs and leveraging existing partnerships.

• The Importance of Timing: Startups should focus on marketplaces after achieving product-market fit, but not too early when the product is still in flux.

• Simplified Marketplace Integration: Platforms like WeTransact can drastically reduce the technical lift and complexity of listing on a marketplace.

Chapters:

00:00 – Introduction and Overview

01:10 – Understanding Marketplaces and Reseller Channels for SaaS

05:35 – Key Benefits of Using Marketplaces for Growth

09:38 – When to Start Leveraging Marketplaces in Your Business

13:59 – The Challenges of Working with Resellers and Marketplaces

21:24 – Simplifying Marketplace Integration with WeTransact

30:11 – Real-World Examples of SaaS Success in Marketplaces

39:52 – Closing Thoughts on Marketplaces as Growth Engines

More About Alexandre

Alexandre has extensive experience working with SaaS startups, having spent eight years at Microsoft focused on Azure innovation. Now at WeTransact, he helps SaaS companies simplify marketplace integration and leverage reseller channels to accelerate growth.

More About WeTransact

WeTransact is a SaaS platform that streamlines the deal-making process for ISVs and startups in the Microsoft Marketplace. We create transactable offers within 5 days, close deals within 3 months, and unlock new Microsoft incentives. With a strong emphasis on driving revenue and growth, WeTransact provides GTM advisory and AI contact matching, helping businesses maximize profitability and expand their opportunities within the Microsoft ecosystem.

Want to Connect?

Alexandre: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrepascalsaas/

WeTransact: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wetransactio/

Website: WeTransact.io

Get Involved:

Enjoy a 10% discount on WeTransact offers exclusively for Pitch Please listeners! Write to contact@wetransact.io to learn more.

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Dive into the critical challenges and solutions in AI with this episode of Founder Stories on the Pitch Please podcast! Featuring Mike Thibodeau alongside Jai Mansukhani and Anthony Azrak, co-founders of OpenSesame, this discussion focuses on how companies can detect and manage AI hallucinations in Large Language Models (LLMs) to ensure reliable AI systems.

What are AI hallucinations? Understand how hallucinations occur in AI systems and the risks they pose for businesses using generative AI.

The role of OpenSesame: Learn how OpenSesame provides an easy-to-implement solution to detect and flag AI hallucinations, ensuring accuracy in AI-generated results.

Use cases for AI detection tools: Explore real-world examples of how industries like healthcare, legal, and B2B are leveraging OpenSesame to mitigate AI risks.

The future of AI and hallucination prevention: Insights into how AI models are evolving and why managing hallucinations will be key to building scalable, reliable AI systems.

For more insights on AI hallucinations and how to avoid them, check out this detailed ⁠blog post on OpenSesame 2.0.

Key Takeaways for Businesses:

• AI hallucinations can lead to significant business risks, especially in high-stakes industries like healthcare and legal sectors.

• OpenSesame helps businesses flag and manage hallucinations in LLMs, ensuring reliable AI results.

• By using OpenSesame, companies can focus on building trustworthy AI solutions while minimizing errors and avoiding costly mistakes. As AI adoption grows, tools to detect hallucinations will become critical to ensuring scalable and accurate AI systems.

For more on how OpenSesame can benefit your business, check out ⁠⁠this video demo ⁠on OpenSesame's hallucination detection services.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

06:13 - The Problem of Hallucinations in AI

09:42 - Becoming Entrepreneurs and Starting Open Sesame

12:05 - Overview of Open Sesame

14:06 - Detecting and Flagging Hallucinations

18:20 - Target Audience and Use Cases

21:34 - Integration and Future Plans

23:17 - Working with Models and Future Plans

24:14 - Building a Strong Community in Toronto

25:08 - The Importance of Rapid Iteration and Feedback

27:39 - The Role of Community and Brand in AI

29:49 - Seeking Talented Engineers and Partnerships

More About OpenSesame:

OpenSesame is revolutionizing the way companies detect and manage AI hallucinations. By offering an easy-to-use solution, they enable businesses to implement more reliable AI systems. With a focus on accuracy and scalability, Open Sesame is helping to shape the future of AI.

Learn more about Jai and Anthony on their ⁠LinkedIn Profile and explore OpenSesame’s approach to reliable AI solutions by visiting their ⁠website⁠.

Want to Connect?

• Jai Mansukhani: ⁠LinkedIn⁠

• Anthony Azrak: ⁠LinkedIn⁠

• OpenSesame: ⁠LinkedIn⁠

• Website: ⁠OpenSesame.dev

Want to try it out?

Pitch Please listeners get 1-month free and a personal onboarding session with OpenSesame! Get started and book a call with OpenSesame today! https://opensesame.dev

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Legal Essentials for Startups: When to Go In-House vs. Fractional General Counsel?

Dive into the essentials of managing legal needs for your startup with our latest episode of Rocket Fuel on the Pitch Please podcast! Mike Thibodeau and Brett Colvin, CEO of Goodlawyer, explore the critical decisions startups face when choosing between external legal counsel, bringing legal expertise in-house, or opting for a fractional general counsel.

In this episode, we delve into:

• The pivotal moments when startups should consider in-house legal support to drive growth.

• How fractional general counsel can offer a cost-effective solution for startups that aren’t ready for a full-time legal team.

• Why early legal frameworks like founder agreements are crucial to avoiding costly mistakes down the road.

• Real-world examples of startups that have accelerated their growth by strategically managing their legal resources.

Episode Takeaways

  • Startups should consider engaging external counsel for a la carte project-based legal support in the early stages.
  • Founder vesting agreements and proper paperwork are crucial in the early days of a business.
  • The tipping point for bringing in in-house counsel is typically around 20-30 employees when legal needs start to impact revenue.
  • Solid contracts with end customers are essential for B2B businesses, and having a fractional GC who understands the business can be beneficial.
  • Fractional GC offers flexibility and scalability without the overhead of a full-time hire.
  • Fractional GCs are specialists in being generalists, with expertise in corporate and commercial law.
  • Fractional GCs focus on getting legal work done efficiently and removing legal bottlenecks.
  • Engaging a fractional GC can save time, improve efficiency, and unlock revenue-generating opportunities.

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Overview

01:02 - Engaging a Lawyer: Spectrum and Options

09:38 - When to Consider In-House Counsel

14:04 - The Importance of Founder Agreements

20:39 - Understanding Fractional General Counsel

23:21 - Cost-Effectiveness of Fractional GC

23:54 - When to Consider Hiring a Fractional General Counsel

25:49 - The Expertise of Fractional General Counsel

27:36 - Managing Legal Bottlenecks with Fractional GCs

28:31 - The Benefits of Good Lawyer's Network

29:48 - Unlocking Efficiency and Revenue with Fractional GCs

32:15 - Transitioning to Fractional GCs: Managing Resources

35:18 - Consistency and Familiarity: Turnover in Big Firms vs. Good Lawyer's Network

More about Brett

Brett Colvin is the Co-founder and CEO of Goodlawyer, a technology company that is transforming how lawyers and businesses work together. Practicing for 4+ years as a corporate lawyer at Canada’s biggest law firm, Brett saw the inefficiencies and frustrations in traditional law firms from the inside. Realizing the need for change, he left his firm and joined forces with his co-founders. Together, they began reimagining legal services from his kitchen table in 2019.

Now, Goodlawyer is a testament to this vision that has grown from humble beginnings to a team of 20 employees and 150+ lawyers who have served over 5,000 clients across Canada.

More about Goodlawyer

Goodlawyer revolutionizes legal services for scaling businesses. Our unique Fractional GC™ and Fractional InHouse™ services deliver embedded legal expertise in a flexible, part-time format. This approach offers cost-effective, integrated support tailored to your company’s unique requirements. Our rigorous vetting means we only offer top-tier legal talent with an average of 10+ years of experience at prestigious firms and in-house roles.

Want to Connect?

Brett: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettrcolvin/

Goodlawyer: https://www.linkedin.com/company/goodlawyer/

Website: goodlawyer.ca

Want to get Involved?

Reach out to Brett and the Goodlawyer team via LinkedIn or website today!

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Who really owns your data in the age of AI?

Victor, Harry, and Chris share their insights on the blurred lines between user-created content and how it’s being used to train AI models. They discuss the ethical implications, the challenges of fairly compensating data contributors, and the potential role of blockchain in creating a more transparent and equitable system.

We also explore the tough questions: How can startups ethically source data without breaking the bank? Can we find a balance between innovation and fair use? And what’s the future of data ownership as AI continues to evolve?

This is a must-listen for anyone interested in AI, data ethics, or the future of tech innovation.

About Victor Kyriazakos

Victor Kyriazakos is the CEO and CTO of Fair AI Data. With a career rooted in the intersection of AI, XR/MR/AR, and Web3 technologies, Victor has led numerous initiatives that blend cutting-edge tech with user-centric solutions. As a co-founder and analyst at RocketFuel, Victor has been instrumental in building decentralized, talent-owned agency models and helping Web3 startups accelerate their roadmap. He is also the CEO and Founder of RealTwin, an innovation studio that collaborates with media brands and enterprises to produce groundbreaking MR/XR/AR services. His extensive experience includes leading engineering efforts for top media and sports brands where he developed immersive cloud platforms and mixed reality experiences. Victor holds an MSc in Electrical and Computer Engineering and is passionate about creating ethical, transparent, and user-owned technological ecosystems.

About Harry Touloupas

Harry Touloupas is the Co-Founder and Chief Information Officer at Fair AI Data. With a Master’s degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Patras, Harry’s career spans multiple roles in cloud solutions and Web3 technologies. He is multi-cloud certified and has built DevOps processes for numerous products. Harry leads infrastructure for RocketFuel and RealTwin, managing high-performance teams and scalable product development. A huge proponent of open source code, he is passionate about creating ethical, transparent, and user-centric technological solutions.

About Chris Zacharopoulos

Chris is the Co-founder and COO of Fair AI Data and holds an MSc in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Patras in Greece. He is also the COO and PM lead of RocketFuel, the team-as-a-service dev agency that incubated Fair AI Data, and has been focused on building high-performance teams of talented freelancers and creating repeatable operational and SDLC processes. Chris began his professional career as a software engineer specializing in Extended Reality (XR) technologies, and has a passion for startups, entrepreneurship, and cutting-edge technologies.

About Fair AI Data

Fair AI Data is tokenizing the world’s data for AI training, by creating the first dataset marketplace that pays back creators. Our mission is to put an end to the unsolicited data scraping and create the largest repository of high-quality, ethically-sourced AI datasets, and establish a “creators first”, data-backed economy. Fair AI Data’s trustless platform allows creators to opt-in and monetize their work easily through a one-click interface, and makes sure they are compensated when AI companies train on their data.

Want to Connect?

Website: https://www.fair-data.ai/

Twitter: https://x.com/FairAIData

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/fair-ai-data

Email: hello@fair-data.ai

Want to Become a Contributor?

If you have a GitHub, GitLab, or DeviantArt account, visit our website now to reserve your spot on the platform and make the first step to start earning from your data! Be part of the movement to prove ethically-sourced AI is possible.

Want to support Fair AI Data?

Follow us on social media, and join us in the discussions for ethical AI practices. Your voice counts!

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In this episode of Founder Stories, we sit down with Peter Deitz, founder of Unwrapit, the platform that's revolutionizing corporate gifting with a focus on sustainability and meaningful experiences.

Peter takes us through his journey from a solo entrepreneur to establishing Unwrapit as a B Corp, committed to reducing waste through innovative digital gifting solutions.

We explore the challenges of building a purpose-driven business, the importance of aligning corporate values with sustainability, and why digital gifting is the future of corporate events.

Discover how Unwrapit is leading the charge in creating a greener, more thoughtful approach to corporate gifting.

Takeaways

  • Prioritizing impact and purpose in business can be a competitive advantage and attract like-minded team members and investors.
  • Non-physical gifts, such as experiences, charitable donations, and gift cards, can create lasting memories and higher recipient satisfaction.
  • Choosing non-physical gifts can reduce waste and lower costs for businesses. Unwrap It offers personalized, emotive, and branded recipient experiences through a digital gifting platform.
  • The platform helps customers design and contemplate the recipient experience they want to offer, ensuring personalization and brand reflection.
  • Unwrapit sources gifts based on the regions where recipients are located and offers a curated list of gift options for recipients to choose from.
  • Unwrap It is suitable for companies or events with a gifting budget of over $2,500 and has a global reach.
  • The platform has already achieved significant impact, including planting trees, securing meals for food-insecure individuals, and reducing CO2 emissions.

Sound Bites

  • "Let's design the waste and pollution out of an industry that's known for creating a lot of waste and pollution."
  • "Successful companies, startups likely have at least one, probably two master generalists in the founding team."
  • "Four in five corporate gifts are immediately discarded, never used, go straight to a trash can or hopefully a recycling bin."
  • "The experience for the end recipient is entirely digital."
  • "Enabling choice makes the whole experience more meaningful."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

01:55 - Early Entrepreneurship and Shift to Social Impact

05:04 - Pros and Cons of Being an Entrepreneur on the Side

08:01 - Bootstrapping and Methodical Approach in Sustainable Business

11:48 - Recruiting Co-Founders and the Importance of Purpose

16:18 - Introduction to Unwrapit and Its Purpose

18:21 - The Landscape of Corporate and Event Gifting

23:51 - Costs and Benefits of Non-Physical Gifting

27:46 - The Digital Recipient Experience

30:16 - Enabling Choice for Meaningful Experiences

35:20 - Impact and Achievements of Unwrap It

43:21 - Innovation and Future Plans

About Peter Deitz

Peter is a 2 x B Corp entrepreneur committed to creating enduring companies that have a deeply-rooted social and environmental purpose. Prior to Unwrapit, Peter co-founded Grantbook, a 50-person digital transformation consultancy that works in the philanthropy sector. Peter is based in Toronto, ON and is the proud father of three kids, two cats, and a dog.

About Unwrapit

Unwrapit builds business relationships through hassle-free, personalized, and scalable gift

campaigns. No more generic gifts that are sent today and forgotten tomorrow. With Unwrapit,

recipients choose their own gift — making it the perfect way to show appreciation to those who

matter most to the business.

Want to Connect?

Peter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterdeitz/

Unwrapit: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unwrapit/

Book a Demo: https://calendly.com/d/x8mp-6ksz/demo-with-unwrapit?month=2024-08

Want to Try it Out?

Unwrapit is currently offering a summer promotion consisting of 50% off any Single Occasion or Annual Plan confirmed prior to August 31st. To learn more, visit unwrapit.com and book a demo.

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Bootstrapping or Venture-Backed: What's the Smarter Move?

Dive into the essentials of bootstrapping and non-dilutive funding with our latest episode of Rocket Fuel on the Pitch Please podcast!

In Rocket Fuel Episode #3, we chat with Brianna Blaney, co-founder of Pocketed, to explore how startups can leverage alternative funding strategies to maintain control and accelerate growth.

In this episode, we delve into:

• The various types of non-dilutive funding available, including grants, tax credits, and incentives.

• The importance of aligning funding strategies with your business goals.

• Real-world examples of startups that have scaled faster by strategically stacking different types of capital.

• How Pocketed's platform simplifies the complex world of grants and funding, helping founders access the money they need to grow.

If you're a founder navigating the startup journey, this episode is packed with actionable insights on how to make smarter funding decisions. Tune in to learn how to stack your capital effectively and keep more equity in your hands as you build your business!

Takeaways

  • Startups should consider bootstrapping elements of their business throughout their journey.
  • Non-dilutive funding, such as grants, tax credits, and incentives, should be part of a startup's funding strategy.
  • Non-dilutive funding can help startups scale faster and achieve milestones.
  • Accessing grants can be challenging due to the complexity and changing nature of programs.
  • Tools and resources, like Pocketed, can help startups navigate the grant application process.
  • Startups should be thoughtful about how they stack different types of funding together.
  • It's important to start early and be proactive in pursuing non-dilutive funding opportunities.

Sound Bites

"Startups should consider bootstrapping elements of their business throughout their journey."

"Non-dilutive funding, such as grants, tax credits, and incentives, should be part of a startup's funding strategy."

"Non-dilutive funding can help startups scale faster and achieve milestones."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

03:10 - The Importance of Bootstrapping and Non-Dilutive Funding

10:08 - Examples of Startups Using Non-Dilutive Funding

13:59 - Challenges in Accessing Grants

16:13 - Tools and Resources for Streamlining the Grant Application Process

24:54 - Closing Thoughts and Next Steps

More About Brianna

Money is a leading barrier to innovation and entrepreneurship, especially for women and equity-deserving groups. As an experienced founder, Brianna has lived this pain. She co-founded Pocketed to level the playing field, helping Canadian businesses easily access over $5.9B annually in grants, tax credits, and incentives. Since 2021, more than 15,000 companies have used Pocketed to access over $100M. Together with her team, Brianna is on a mission to eliminate financial barriers for businesses.

More About Pocketed

Pocketed helps companies across North America access billions of dollars in grants, tax credits, and incentives with our intelligent matching platform and funding solutions. Since launching in 2021, more than 15,000 businesses have used Pocketed to access over $100M in government funding. Create your free Pocketed account today at https://www.hellopocketed.io using promo code PitchPlease.

Want to Connect?

Brianna: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briannablaney/

Pocketed: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hellopocketed/

Get Involved:

Create your free Pocketed account today at https://www.hellopocketed.io using promo code PitchPlease.

Code: https://app.hellopocketed.io/create-account/?referral_code=PitchPlease)

Keywords

bootstrapping, non-dilutive funding, grants, tax credits, incentives, debt, equity, funding strategy, scaling, milestones, challenges, tools, resources

StartupFunding #Bootstrap #Entrepreneurship #NonDilutiveFunding #Grants #StartupSuccess #RocketFuel

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Curious about the Future of AI Agents and Developers?

In episode #68 of Founder Stories, we sit down with Adam Silverman, co-founder of AgentOps.ai, to explore how AI agents are transforming the way businesses operate. Adam shares his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of building relationships and learning from failures.

AgentOps is a powerful SDK designed to provide observability and monitoring for AI agents. Adam explains how the platform enables engineering teams to debug and analyze their agents, while compliance teams can track every interaction to meet regulatory standards. The platform also monitors key metrics like cost and latency, and supports multi-agent systems that can perform complex, end-to-end workflows.

As a central hub for all agent data, AgentOps integrates seamlessly with other tools and platforms, offering solutions for developers and enterprises alike. With flexible pricing options, including a free plan for indie developers, AgentOps is making it easier than ever to build and manage AI agents that automate tasks and boost productivity.

Takeaways

  • Building relationships and treating people well are crucial in business.
  • Learning from failures is an important part of the entrepreneurial journey.
  • AgentOps provides observability and monitoring for AI agents, allowing debugging and analysis.
  • The platform tracks cost, latency, and supports multi-agent systems.
  • An agent is a complex AI system that can perform end-to-end workflows. AgentOps is a platform for building and managing AI agents that automate tasks and workflows.
  • The platform serves as a central hub for agent data and integrates with other tools and platforms.
  • AgentOps offers a free plan for indie developers and a pro plan for larger enterprises.
  • Embracing AI technology and automation can improve efficiency and productivity in the workplace.

Sound Bites

  • "You were like MVP-ing entrepreneur life at that time."
  • "Fail is first attempt in learning."
  • "Make sure you're in business with the right people."
  • "Extending workflows into systematic processes"
  • "Automating tasks for faster and more accurate results"
  • "AgentOps is primarily used by developers and compliance teams"

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background

04:17 - Entrepreneurship and Learning from Failures

11:17 - Understanding Stealth Startups

16:16 - The Importance of Building in Public

20:00 - Introduction to AgentOps

23:13 - Explaining AI Agents

28:36 - Building and Managing AI Agents with AgentOps

31:05 - Applications of AI Agents in Market Research and Sales Automation

33:20 - Creating Operational Efficiency through Automation

38:49 - Embracing AI Technology and Overcoming Fear

44:22 - Testing and Iterating with Off-the-Shelf Technology

46:06 - Supporting Content Creators and Conclusion

About Adam

Adam Silverman is the co-founder of AgentOps, a platform designed to provide observability and monitoring for AI agents. With a background in technology and entrepreneurship, Adam has a passion for building innovative solutions that streamline workflows and enhance productivity. He emphasizes the importance of learning from failures, building strong relationships, and leveraging AI technology to drive business success. Adam’s journey from a young entrepreneur to a leader in the AI space reflects his commitment to improving how businesses operate in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Want to Connect?

Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamsil/

AgentOps.ai: https://www.linkedin.com/company/aistaff/

Want to Try it out?

Check them out AgentOps.ai here: https://www.agentops.ai/

Keywords

entrepreneurship, failures, relationships, AgentOps, SDK, observability, monitoring, AI agents, engineering teams, compliance, cost tracking, latency, multi-agent systems, AgentOps, AI agents, automation, productivity, workflow, developers, compliance teams, data integration, pricing, enterprise, technology, efficiency

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Have you Ever Wondered: "What if there was an Airbnb for Commercial Spaces?"

Meet Alex, the founder of Quikspace, as he shares his journey as an entrepreneur and the inspiration behind his marketplace for commercial space.

In this episode of Founder Stories, we chat with Alex Hines who discusses his previous successes and failures, from building a clothing brand and a design agency that led to him starting his current endeavour, Quikspace.

Quickspace aims to solve the problem of underutilized commercial space by connecting space owners with people who need short-term space.

He discusses the current state of the platform, its business model, and its plans for growth. Alex also highlights the importance of sales and distribution in the success of a startup and the potential for AI to disrupt the commercial real estate industry.

Tune in to hear how Quikspace is paving the way for the future of commercial space rentals and why you should keep an eye on their rapid growth and resilience in the face of challenges.

Keywords

entrepreneurship, commercial space, marketplace, short-term rentals, customer acquisition, AI, predictive analytics, teamwork, perseverance

Takeaways

  • Selling and distribution are crucial for the success of a business.
  • Quikspace connects businesses in need of short-term space with space owners who have underutilized or vacant space.
  • Customer acquisition is a key focus for Quikspace growth.
  • AI can play a role in predictive analytics and matching users with the right properties.
  • Teamwork and perseverance are essential for founders.

Sound Bites

  • "I think my biggest learning curve right now is my ability to sell needs to improve."
  • "How do you actually get to the customers you need? So I think that's where that money would go."
  • "You gotta keep going, man. The grit and the perseverance is the biggest key to success."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction to Quick Space and Alex's Background

08:15 - The Inspiration behind Quick Space

19:12 - Targeting Underutilized Commercial Spaces

26:42 - Working with a Talented Team

29:56 - The Importance of Sales and Distribution

32:37 - The Potential of AI in Commercial Real Estate

36:17 - Advice for Entrepreneurs and Conclusion

About Alex

I'm Alex Hines, a product designer by day and a serial entrepreneur by night currently building a markplace called Quikspace. I've had my share of wins and losses, founding and scaling a design agency, a clothing brand, a non-profit, and a cannabis retailer over the years among others that never got any traction. Each venture, whether a hit or a miss, has been a thrilling journey, teaching me invaluable lessons about growing businesses and understanding customer needs. Here's to embracing the ups and downs of entrepreneurship!

About Quikspace

Quikspace is a marketplace platform designed to bridge the gap between flexible workspace needs and property utilization. Our mission is to empower "hometrepreneurs" and small business owners by offering access to under-utilized and vacant commercial spaces on flexible terms. This provides a solution for businesses outgrowing their home workspace and generates income for leaseholders and property owners during their search for long-term tenants. By leveraging real-time availability, seamless booking processes, and integrated payment systems, Quikspace transforms vacant spaces into vibrant, productive hubs, fostering a community of dynamic businesses and driving economic growth.

Want to Connect?

Alex: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderhines/

Quikspace: https://www.linkedin.com/company/quikspace/

Want to Learn More?

Check out Quikspace today! - Website: https://www.getquikspace.com/

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Ever wondered how to identify when your product has truly hit the market sweet spot? In this episode of Rocket Fuel, we sit down with Tim from Blossom Social to delve into the one of the most common founder hurdles: finding product-market fit. Tim brings a wealth of experience, from his days at Wattpad to founding Couply and now leading brand partnerships at Blossom.  Tim shares his insights on the signs of product-market fit, including unique user behaviours and the critical role of customer feedback. We also explore the challenges of pivoting and the importance of staying true to your vision while adapting to market needs.  Discover how Blossom Social is revolutionizing the investment community by making financial education and portfolio management accessible to everyone.  Tune in for an engaging discussion packed with practical advice for startup founders and entrepreneurs navigating their own journey to product-market fit.  Takeaways  • Product-market fit means building the right product to solve a customer's needs.  • Signs of true product-market fit include users doing strange things, users getting upset about changes, and users being highly motivated to be part of the product.  • Partial product-market fit is when a product solves a specific problem for users but struggles to scale effectively.  • Continuous usage and momentum are crucial for achieving product-market fit.  • Understanding user behavior and feedback is essential for identifying and improving product-market fit. Recognizing product-market fit is crucial for startup success.  • Feedback loops and validation are essential for understanding customer needs.  • Finding fellow founders to compare and be vulnerable with can provide valuable insights.  • Being realistic and open to pivots is important for long-term success.  • Embracing adjustments and not getting stuck on the original idea is key. Sound Bites  • "People doing strange things... that is a sign of product-market fit."  • "Users getting very upset around changes in the product... is an amazing sign of product-market fit."  • "Investment in your product by your users is a massive sign of product-market fit."  • "If you're struggling or if you don't have product market fit, everything feels like you're pushing a boulder up a hill."  • "The best founders make pivots, adjustments, not just features, and they embrace it and they push through and they succeed." Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 02:58 - Understanding Product-Market Fit 04:29 - Signs of Product-Market Fit: People Doing Strange Things 07:32 - The Importance of User Feedback and Debates 11:16 - Passionate Users: A Key Indicator of Product-Market Fit 15:03 - Challenges of Scaling Without Continuous Usage 16:32 - The Decision to Pivot 20:23 - The Importance of Feedback Loops 26:20 - Embracing Pivots for Success 32:42 - Building a Supportive Founder Community  More About Tim Johnson Tim was an early employee at Wattpad which led to a 753M exit. He built his own app, Couply, won the largest pitch contest in the world at Collision Conference and garnered 400K downloads before Couply became a self-sustaining business. Tim is now Head of Brand Partnerships at Blossom Social – the app for investors. More About Blossom Blossom is a community of over 150,000 investors sharing their verified stock portfolios, trades, and investment ideas - helping the world make better financial decisions together.  Want to Connect? Tim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tejjohnson/ Blossom: https://www.linkedin.com/company/meetblossomsocial/ Couply: https://www.linkedin.com/company/couply/  Want to Explore More? Download Blossom: https://www.blossomsocial.ca/ Download Couply: http://www.couply.io/  Keywords product-market fit, startups, consumer apps, user behavior, user feedback, community, motivation, product-market fit, pivot, feedback loops, validation, founders, vulnerability, adjustments, realistic, openness

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Ever wondered how augmented reality (AR) can go beyond just digital overlays and into detailed, hyper realistic experiences?

Meet Glyph, the platform that's embedding code into the real world, transforming AR into something truly remarkable.

I sat down with Tahmeed Rahim, co-founder of Glyph, to discuss how their platform is redefining AR by allowing it to track deformation and provide realistic, interactive experiences.

Tahmeed shares his journey from engineering at the University of Toronto to founding Glyph, highlighting how their technology enables precise AR overlays on complex surfaces like textiles and interiors. With applications ranging from interior design to robotics, Glyph is set to revolutionize how we interact with digital and physical worlds.

Discover how Glyph's innovative approach is paving the way for the future of AR, making it more accessible and effective for businesses and consumers alike.

Takeaways

  • Tahmeed's background in engineering and robotics automation led him to start Glyph
  • Being a startup founder allows Tahmeed to actively contribute to the future of technology
  • Tahmeed emphasizes the importance of being a versatile founder and being involved in all aspects of the business
  • Glyph is a platform that embeds code into the real world and uses deformation tracking to map AR content to malleable surfaces
  • It provides a higher level of realism compared to standard AR overlays, making it suitable for accurate product visualization.
  • Users can place proprietary fabric samples on objects and use an application to see detailed options and textures.
  • Glyph's target audience includes designers, sales teams, and marketing agencies.

Chapters

00:00- Introduction and Background

04:11 - The Start of Glyph

07:00 - Being a Versatile Founder

10:08 - The Inspiration Behind the Name Glyph

19:01 - Advanced Realism and Product Communication

21:29 - Bringing the Showroom Experience Home

25:46 - Enhancing Product Visualization

29:14 - Becoming a Tool in Other People's Toolkits

35:04 - Memorable Moments and Future Milestones

About Tahmeed

Tahmeed Rahim is the founder and CEO of Glyph Platforms, a startup focused on next gen spatial computing. An engineering graduate from University of Toronto, Tahmeed started his career as the first engineering hire at a biomedical company focused on personalized medicine, overseeing the development of automation systems for vision based assay analysis. With over 4 years of experience in building vision based systems, Tahmeed founded Dawn Robotics with the intention to apply the novel spatial computing system called "Glyph" in the field of robotics. Dawn Robotics eventually became Glyph Platforms as the applications of Glyph reached further than just robotics and into the field of Augmented Reality!

About Glyph Platforms

Glyph Platforms develops next gen spatial computing for applications in augmented reality in the trillion dollar textile industry. Glyph works with some of the largest textile companies in the world to reduce waste, costs and time loss associated with physical sampling, via digitizing and showcasing their products using AR. We have big plans next year to release our hyper-realistic spatial computing markers called "Glyphs" to the public and let the AR community bring out the true potential of this new medium. By making computer vision accessible and easy to implement, Glyph Platforms aims to democratize the creation of AR experiences and drive the future of ambient computing.

Want to Connect?

Tahmeed: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tahmeed-u-rahim/

Glyph Platforms: https://www.linkedin.com/company/glyphplatforms/

Website: https://www.glyphplatforms.com/

Interested in Learning More?

"Connect with me directly via Twitter/X or LinkedIn, learn more about us via Twitter, LinkedIn or visit our website Glyph Platforms'

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Curious How Influencers can Help Local Business Thrive?

In this episode of Founder Stories, we chat with Apostolos, co-founder of Eros, to explore their innovative approach to connecting influencers with small and medium-sized restaurants. Eros is transforming the way restaurants find and collaborate with influencers, focusing on authenticity and genuine connections.

Apostolos shares his journey from pro gamer and consultant to founding Eros, addressing the challenges of traditional influencer marketing. Eros flips the script by empowering influencers to choose the brands they want to work with, ensuring real passion and commitment in their collaborations.

Learn how Eros is making influencer marketing more accessible and effective for local eateries, and discover the impact it's having on both restaurants and content creators.

Apostolos Toptsis

Apostolos Toptsis is the CEO and founder of Eros Influencer Marketing, a company that bridges the gap between restaurants and passionate content creators. Apostolos transitioned into the influencer marketing industry after a successful career in software sales within the restaurant sector, sales and marketing consulting, and as an influencer in the gaming space. His innovative approach and dedication have propelled Eros Influencer Marketing to thrive in a competitive market.

Eros Influencer Marketing

Eros Influencer Marketing is a platform that connects restaurants with influencers to create effective marketing campaigns. It uses a marketplace model and a proprietary matching algorithm to pair restaurants with influencers whose interests align with the campaign’s objectives. The platform focuses on nano and micro-influencers to maximize reach and engagement rates.

Want to Connect?

Apostolos: https://www.linkedin.com/in/apostolostoptsis/

Eros: https://www.linkedin.com/company/eros-influencer-marketing/

Website: https://www.erosmarketing.io/

Want to get Involved?

If you're an influencer and want to work with Eros, join the waitlist here: https://www.erosmarketing.io/email-submission

If you want to learn more how our platform works here is my calendar: https://calendly.com/erosinfluencermarketing/apostolos-eros-influencer-marketing-30-minutes

Offer to restaurants interested in working with Eros (50% off all plans), book a call here: https://calendly.com/erosinfluencermarketing/apostolos-eros-influencer-marketing-30-minutes

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Rocket Fuel Episode #1: Avoiding Cap Table Pitfalls for Startups

Dive into the essentials of cap tables with our first episode of Rocket Fuel on the Pitch Please podcast! Mike Thibodeau and Amit from Mantle break down the complexities and importance of cap tables for startup success.

In this episode, we cover:

• The basics of cap tables and why they're crucial for tracking ownership and equity distribution.

• Common pitfalls to avoid and the strategic decisions every founder needs to make.

• Insights on types of shares, vesting schedules, and considerations for giving equity to advisors and consultants.

•️ How Mantle can simplify cap table management with real-time organization and scenario modelling.

Understanding cap tables is essential for every startup founder. Mistakes can be costly and time-consuming, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can avoid these pitfalls and ensure your company’s success.

Tune in now to learn how to manage your cap table effectively and set your startup on the path to success!

More About Amit Jethani

At Mantle, Amit oversees Sales, Marketing, Customer Success, Finance, and Office Operations. Amit’s current focus is on our go-to-market for channel partners across North America and on scaling our customer operations as we navigate our next growth stage.

Previously, Amit served as the Director of the Core Services vertical at Autonomic, where he focused on developing a connected vehicle platform for Ford Motor Company. Before this, he was the Product Manager for the Inventory Team, creating highly scalable and efficient APIs that that facilitated seamless onboarding of connectivity devices and vehicles. Autonomic was acquired by Ford Motor Company in 2018.

Prior to his tenure at Autonomic, Amit was a Product Manager for the mobile team at Top Hat, overseeing both professor and student experiences. He also held the position of Product Manager at Pivotal Labs, where he worked with large corporate clients in the retail loyalty programs, banking, and automotive sectors. Earlier in his career, Amit was the Director of Product at Ruby Life (formerly Avid Life Media), leading the development of all web properties for both desktop and mobile platforms.

About Mantle

Mantle is created by a team of serial entrepreneurs who have worked together for over a decade across various startups and prolific exits. We are taking a fresh look at equity ownership since we have personally felt the pain of managing equity at various stages of growth. We are building Mantle because we want to empower founders, operators, or lawyers who manage high growth companies to make better decisions.

Want to Learn More About Cap Table Management?

Amit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ajethani/

Mantle: https://www.linkedin.com/company/withmantle/

Website: https://withmantle.com/

OFFER ALERT!

"Listeners of Pitch Please can unlock 12 months of free access and white-glove onboarding. After their first year on Mantle, they'll secure our exclusive rate of US$100/month for unlimited stakeholders, per company. To redeem, founders should book a demo or register their company and mention Pitch Please."

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Ever wished booking a flight could be as simple as hailing a cab? Meet Airble, the "Uber for flights."

In this episode of Pitch Please, we chat with Saeed Golzar and Anojh Thayaparan, co-founders of Airble, the platform transforming private air travel. Discover how Airble provides a seamless booking experience for everything from helicopters to private jets, making regional and long-haul air travel more accessible and efficient.

We explore their journey from pilots and tech enthusiasts to startup founders, their innovative approach to solving aviation's "empty leg" problem, and the challenges of marketing a platform with a diverse user base.

Tune in to hear about Airble's unique features, such as the ability to book shared flights and even arrange emergency transport, all aimed at providing a flexible, user-friendly travel experience.

Saeed Golzar

Saeed Golzar, Founder and CEO of Airble, was a pilot with over a decade of flying experience across various aircraft, including Airbus A320s, Boeing MD83s, seaplanes and helicopters. Saeed's unique blend of aviation insights and an MBA form the foundation of Airble's vision.

Anojh Thayaparan

Anojh Thayaparan is the Chief Technology Officer at Airble, lending his expertise in software engineering and complex technical solutions. With a background in founding a software consulting firm and working on critical projects such as building security infrastructure for Courthouse Libraries BC, Anojh's contributions drive Airble's proprietary algorithms and technological advancements.

Airble

Airble is an instant flight booking marketplace for both domestic and international flights in North America, showcasing all types of aircraft based on the journey. The Airble platform allows users to choose a suitable time and place for the departure, view transparent fixed pricing, calculated at the moment of the booking, and pay instantly without any hassle. Airble allows clients to save time in booking charter flights by calculating the trip cost with just a few clicks.

Want to Connect?

Anojh Thayaparan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anojh/

Email: anojh.thayaparan@airble.com

Saeed Golzar: https://www.linkedin.com/in/golzarsaeed/

Email: saeed.golzar@airble.com

Airble: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airble/

Interested in Learning More?

To learn more about Airble, visit airble.com or download the Airble mobile app. Stay tuned for new features and exciting offers from expanded service regions! Watch how our friendly Canadian influencer used Airble to travel: https://youtu.be/Yq8CA2-y4FQ

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Crafting Your Home with Confidence: Meet HoneEver dream of tackling DIY home projects but don’t know where to start? Meet Hone, the ultimate solution for beginners looking to turn their DIY dreams into reality.In this episode of Pitch Please, we chat with Jacqueline, co-founder of Hone. Jacqueline shares her entrepreneurial journey from corporate life to co-founding a startup that simplifies DIY home projects. Hone provides comprehensive kits, complete with all necessary tools and materials, plus easy-to-follow instructions, making home improvement accessible to everyone.Join us as Jacqueline discusses the importance of building a supportive community for DIY enthusiasts, the unique challenges of starting a business, and the joy of empowering people to create beautiful spaces on their own. Discover how Hone is transforming the home improvement landscape by making DIY projects simpler, more enjoyable, and incredibly rewarding.About JacquelineJacqueline is an entrepreneur, marketing consultant, and writer. She has a unique ability to simplify complex concepts, which is apparent in her business ventures and storytelling. After spending over a decade in progressive marketing roles in sports, media, and retail, in 2016, Jacqueline started her first company, Pressed News. It was a digital media company that made the news easy to understand for millennials. It was acquired by Daily Hive in 2020. Jacqueline is currently building her second business, Hone, a startup focused on DIY home projects.About HoneHone simplifies DIY home projects from start to finish. We make project kits, guides, and content that help people hone new skills while making their home decor visions come to life.Want to Connect?Website: https://homewithhone.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/homewithhone/Jacqueline: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelinegyl/Hone: https://www.linkedin.com/company/homewithhone/Want to Learn More?For updates on product launches and upcoming live events, follow us on Instagram!

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Navigating the job market as a student can be daunting. Enter Mockt, the platform that's revolutionizing interview preparation and access to information.

In this episode of Pitch Please, we caught up with Adam Huang, co-founder of Mockt, to discuss how their platform is transforming the way students prepare for job interviews. Adam shares his journey from studying at the University of Toronto to developing a tool that bridges the gap between academic learning and real-world job market demands.

We dive into how Mockt connects students with upper-year peers for realistic mock interviews, providing valuable feedback and building confidence. Adam explains the unique challenges they faced, the importance of real-time feedback, and their commitment to enhancing accessibility and affordability for students.

Discover how Mockt is helping students turn interview anxiety into success stories. Whether you're a student gearing up for your first job or looking to refine your interview skills, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.

About Adam

Adam is a student entrepreneur with a keen interest in technology and product development. He co-founded Mockt, a platform designed to democratize access to interview practice for students through a peer-to-peer format. With experience in finance recruitment, he was able to leverage his recruitment insights to kickstart this new venture alongside his two co-founders.

Growing up, he was always interested in building and experiments, whether it was physically through LEGOs, or virtually through coding and open-world games. After his journey in finance, he looked to explore his passion for building, which began with simple coding projects but has since evolved into a broader exploration of what it means to create products that resonate with people. Today, he continues to hone his innovation and general acumen as a founder with a story that is a compelling reminder of the power of following one's passions and the impact of building with purpose.

About Mockt

Mockt is an ed-tech startup that aims to democratize access to mock interviews for students. For students, we aim to democratize access to mock interviews and help you land your next job offer. For career centers, we improve job placements, data transparency, and resource offerings for your entire student body.

Want to Connect?

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getmockt/

Email: team@getmockt.com

Want to Get Involved?

Visit the website and Get a Mock Now!

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Ever thought your everyday spending could help pay your rent? Meet Karla, the innovative platform connecting local businesses and renters, easing the burden of high living costs.

In this episode of Pitch Please, we talk with Robin Gray, the visionary behind Karla Rewards. Robin shares his journey from his challenging upbringing in Montreal to founding a tech startup aimed at reducing living expenses for Canadians. We dive into how Karla's unique rewards system helps members earn cashback on daily purchases, which can then be applied to rent payments.

Robin also discusses Karla's focus on community, financial literacy through Karla AI, and their ambitious goal of transforming shopping experiences while supporting local businesses. Learn how Karla is creating a connected ecosystem that benefits both residents and businesses alike.

Listen now to discover how Karla is making housing more affordable and supporting local communities in Canada!

About Robin

Robin Gray, an African-Canadian entrepreneur from Montréal, Quebec, founded Karla Rewards in 2023. After a successful four-year stint at Microsoft, specializing in Azure Cloud and Data + AI services, Robin took the jump into entrepreneurship and went full force into tackling affordable housing within local communities plagued with high living costs.

Robin grew up relatively poor. His parents were both immigrants from Europe and Africa, giving him a unique perspective on the challenges of immigration, but generally, the high cost of living in Canada. He aims to create Canada's first super-platform, focused on affordable housing and supporting local businesses. Through Karla, he envisions a connected ecosystem where businesses and residents are interconnected through a single platform, The Karla Network, with an ambitious goal to make housing more affordable, fairer, and more rewarding through its unique rewards program, Lifestyle Rewards.

About Karla Technologies

Karla Technologies helps Canadians reduce living expenses, particularly rent when its members make online and local purchases through the Karla Alliance Network. Additionally, timely rent payments with Karla contribute to building a strong credit profile. Karla addresses the network effect challenge of loyalty by focusing on hyper-localization, targeting dense communities, and fostering neighborhood connections.

Key Announcements:

  1. Karla has commenced development on Karla AI, a Robo Advisor to help its members with financial literacy

  2. Karla has reached 1,000 members and 100 stores on its platform

  3. Karla has entered into a partnership with IDEA Mississauga to transform shopping experiences for 16,000 local businesses (including SquareOne) and help reduce rent for Mississauga's vast 800K+ residential community!

Want to Connect?

Email: robin@co-karla.com

Website: www.karlarewards.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/karlarewards/

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

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@karla.ai

Robin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-gray8/

Want to Get Involved?

The Karla Alliance is growing—we welcome any interested parties to reach out directly to Robin Gray, Founder of Karla Technologies at robin@co-karla.com

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Discovering Better Air Quality Solutions for a Healthier Future 🌿

Welcome back to Pitch Please! Today, I caught up with Jenessa Olson from ecologicca to discuss their innovative approach to indoor air quality and its profound impact on health.

We dive into how ecologicca's cutting-edge technology addresses air quality challenges, transforming how we manage and improve the air we breathe indoors. Jenessa shares her journey from chronic illness to founding a company that uses advanced air sanitization to eliminate pollutants and pathogens, ensuring healthier environments.

Learn how ecologicca’s systems go beyond traditional air purification, using hydroxyl technology to create fresher, cleaner indoor air.

About Jenessa Olson

Jenessa is a two-time founder and is the founder and CEO of ecologicca, an IoT company that is connecting your health and your environment. The company was initially born out of Jenessa's own personal health struggles. Despite being at the peak of her health and fitness journey, she would fall ill with inexplicable flus and it was finally determined that she was reacting to poor indoor air quality. Her travels showed her that this was a global problem, and thus began her mission to improve health through the environment. She has a background in software and logistics, was a former professional runner for Team Canada, has a Master's in Business from Ivey Business School and is passionate about social and environmental responsibility.

About ecologicca

ecologicca is an IoT startup, linking your health and your environment with our proprietary ecosystem. ecologicca's ecosystem consists of three parts: our hardware products, proprietary software system, and certification program. With our system, businesses can meet regulations such as ASHRAE 241 and 100, realize greater building efficiency, and improve environmental and human health - starting with the air we breathe indoors.

Want to Connect?

Website: https://ecologicca.com/

ecologicca's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecologicca/

Jenessa's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenessa-olson/

Interested in Learning More?

We are actively raising our Seed round and are looking for introductions to funds, family offices and angels in the IoT, hardware, proptech, cleantech spaces who are actively deploying. We are also looking to connect with any WELL accredited professionals who are looking for ways to help their customers meet regulations, improve their WELL scores, and quantify the impact of air quality on their health.

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Welcome back to another episode of Pitch Please where we're diving into the world of real estate tech innovation with Imam Khalid, the dynamic young founder of SellStatic. This episode unpacks the groundbreaking approach SellStatic is bringing to the real estate market, making high-tech sales tools accessible to every realtor.

SellStatic isn't just another software platform; it's a service designed to cut down the time realtors spend on marketing and client management, allowing them to focus on what they do best: selling homes. With its AI-driven functionalities, SellStatic automates complex tasks like ad campaigns and client interaction, simplifying day-to-day operations and boosting productivity.

Today, Imam shares not only the technical prowess of SellStatic but also his entrepreneurial journey—from fixing phones in high school to leading a startup poised to transform real estate sales. Join us as we explore how SellStatic is optimizing the real estate sales process and what this means for realtors nationwide.

Discover how a blend of youthful zeal, tech expertise, and a keen understanding of sales dynamics are driving Imam and SellStatic towards reshaping the real estate industry. Tune in now to gain insights into leveraging technology for business success and the future of real estate marketing and sales.

About Imam Khalid

At just 21 years old, Imam is the visionary founder behind SellStatic, a leading real estate tech startup. From changing phone screens during school recesses to founding a tech company, Imam has demonstrated an entrepreneurial mindset from a young age. Currently in his fourth year at York University, he is pursuing a double major in Computer Science and Business, blending cutting-edge tech insights with strategic business expertise. His career began in leadership sales roles within some of Canada's top startups, providing him with invaluable insights into the essentials of startup success. This experience not only refined his skills in persuasive communication but also fueled his passion for revolutionizing traditional sales strategies. Imam’s relentless pursuit of knowledge, combined with his commitment to networking and continuous improvement, are key to overcoming the challenges of the startup landscape and guiding SellStatic toward new heights of success.

About SellStatic

SellStatic is revolutionizing real estate sales with AI-driven solutions that streamline marketing and sales processes for realtors. Our platform automates tedious tasks, enabling realtors to launch targeted ad campaigns in just five clicks. By integrating with existing CRMs, SellStatic offers real-time market insights, pricing strategies, and efficient lead management, reducing the need for multiple software. Our aim is to empower realtors with technology that simplifies selling, making it more efficient and effective. Join us in transforming the real estate industry with SellStatic.

Want to Connect?

Email: imam@sellstatic.com

Socials (Instagram, Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok): @Sellstatic

Website: www.sellstatic.com

Want to Get Involved?

We are currently seeking active realtors eager to expand and scale their operations to join our SellStatic Innovators Program! Additionally, we are on the lookout for dynamic young leaders throughout Canada to join our team. Embrace this opportunity to innovate and lead in the real estate tech industry with SellStatic!

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Welcome back to Pitch Please! Today we're delving into the smart future of lawn care with OtO, the compact companion revolutionizing the gardening world. In this exciting discussion, Ali Sabti, the mechanical engineer turned innovator behind OtO, unveils how this device is not just about sprinkling water but about crafting a smarter, more sustainable garden environment.

This episode covers Ali's journey from coding in grade school to creating a groundbreaking outdoor device that combines irrigation with all-natural treatments for your garden. Learn how OtO uses precision technology to not only manage water use but also to intelligently apply eco-friendly solutions like mosquito repellent and pet-safe deodorizers right where they are needed.

Join us as Ali explains the evolution of OtO from an idea sparked by the inconvenience of traditional lawn maintenance to a product celebrated at CES 2022 and named one of TIME's Best Inventions. With OtO, every homeowner can enjoy a lush, healthy, and easy-to-maintain yard without the hassles of outdated systems.

Tune in now to discover how OtO is helping shape a greener, more efficient world right in your backyard.

About Ali Sabti

It all started when Ali Sabti found himself the proud owner of a house with a yard—finally! a green space to call his own. But as he soaked up the sun in his mini oasis, it dawned on him that keeping his lawn picture-perfect was turning into a task his busy schedule just couldn't accommodate.

His little patch of green didn't quite warrant hiring professional landscapers. Yet, a full-blown sprinkler system seemed excessive, and a single sprinkler wouldn't do the trick. That's when inspiration struck, and the seeds of OtO began to sprout.

Drawing on his mechanical engineering background, Ali brought OtO to life. It's more than just a sprinkler; it's a precision-driven powerhouse, effortlessly caring for yards, lawns, and gardens with a finesse that redefines outdoor maintenance.

Fast forward to Spring 2020. After countless hours and countless prototypes, the OtO team proudly unveiled their revolutionary invention to the world.

About OtO

OtO delivers smart, sustainable lawn care through a user-friendly platform that automates watering, fertilizing, and pest control. Our intelligent sprinkler system is designed to provide complete and even coverage, adapting to real-time weather conditions to prevent waste and ensure optimal lawn health. With OtO, achieving a perfect yard is effortless and eco-friendly, backed by an app that makes scheduling and maintenance a breeze.

Want to Connect?

Website: https://otolawn.com/

Email: Lia Dramen, Marketing Manager - lia.dramen@otolawn.com

Ali’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabti/

Ali’s Instagram: @sabtinator

Ali’s TikTok: @sabtinator

OtO's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/36018945/admin/feed/posts/

OtO's Instagram: @otolawn

OtO's TikTok: @otolawn

Want to Get Involved?

Reach out to OtO today!

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How can technology reshape architectural design practices?

In this episode of Pitch Please, we welcome Natalia Bakaeva, co-founder and CEO of ARKI, a pioneering prop-tech startup. Natalia shares ARKI’s journey over the past year, from expanding its AI-driven platform to enhancing how architects access and utilize historical design data.

ARKI, known for its innovative AI solutions, addresses the architectural industry’s challenge of "Dead Data" by transforming how architects interact with their past projects. Natalia discusses the significant strides ARKI has made in integrating AI to categorize, label, and organize architectural assets, making them easily accessible and effectively turning dormant data into a dynamic, searchable wisdom hub.

Join us as we delve into the impact of ARKI's technology on reducing project timelines, cutting costs, and promoting sustainable design practices. Listen now to see how ARKI is not just changing the landscape of architectural design but also empowering professionals to focus on creativity and innovation.

About Natalia Bakaeva

Natalia is a co-founder and CEO of a prop-tech startup with a rich background in architecture and a forward-looking approach to technology in design. With over 15 years of domain experience, Natalia has seamlessly transitioned from traditional architecture to the tech-driven design landscape, showcasing her ability to adapt and innovate. She leads the integration of AI into architectural practices, transforming how project data is utilized. Her innovation employs AI to streamline access to past design assets, categorizing and organizing them into a searchable wisdom hub. Driven by a passion for architectural integrity and technological advancement, Natalia continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the intersection of architecture and technology, making substantial contributions to the field and setting new standards for the industry.

About ARKI

ARKI addresses the architectural industry's pervasive "Dead Data" issue, where architects spend significant time and resources searching for and recreating existing digital assets due to inaccessible project databases/servers. By introducing an AI-powered platform that categorizes, labels, and organizes selected past projects into a searchable hub, ARKI streamlines the design process. It empowers architects to retrieve architectural assets efficiently, accelerating project timelines, reducing costs, and promoting sustainable design practices by optimally using resources and materials. This solution elevates productivity and enhances creativity and innovation within the architectural, engineering, and construction sectors by freeing professionals to focus on groundbreaking designs rather than tedious tasks.

Want to Connect?

Web: https://www.getarki.com/

Wisdom Hub: https://search.getarki.com/

Email: natalia@getarki.com

IG: @arki.digital

Want to Get Involved?

We are looking for early adopters in the architecture and engineering industry who want to build with us and get an advantage of getting the product first!

Also, join our newsletter: Link

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On this episode we bring on real estate professional Jason O'Connor. With his years of experience in building wealth through real estate investment, Jason provides his perspective on many questions people may have before getting into real estate as an investment. We dig into the different types of real estate investments there are, how to figure out which one is best for you, finding the best deal, and the question we all sometimes ask… where do I begin? If you're someone who knows very little about real estate or even a lot this podcast is worth listening to, we go through the nitty gritty with someone who lives and breathes in this space… no pun intended.

Links and Resources:

  • Van Geest Group: https://vangeestgroup.com
  • jason.oconnor@kw.com
  • Evolution Construction: https://evolutioncm.ca | info@evolutioncm.ca
  • Calvert Mortgages: https://chmic.ca

Speaker Bio:

Jason is a real estate professional with the Van Geest Group at Keller Williams Edge in Burlington, ON. He purchased his first property in 2017 and as purchased over 4 million dollars of investment real estate since then. Using the strategies he has learned from his own success, Jason has been able to help clients achieve their wealth building goals through real estate. With a strong network of design, construction, building, staging, moving, lending, and property management companies, he looks to deliver the highest level of service to his clients by providing value that goes beyond the transaction.

Jason is also the Co-Founder of Evolution Construction Management, a company that serves real estate investors through a standard list of features and processes to create an efficient method to streamline the renovation process.

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In this episode, we bring on Kate Bergsma, Partner Development Manager at Microsoft to talk about emotional intelligence (EQ) and why employers are spending more time looking for people with great EQ. We dive into what EQ is, and whether or not it is something you are born with or can develop over time. Kate also breaks down how it differs from IQ. Throughout this episode, we share examples of how one can be using or developing their EQ in both personal and work life. We also highlight how it has become even more important over the past 2 years of unprecedented times with COVID. You may even be using your emotional intelligence and not realizing it. If you are curious about how to assess your own EQ then make sure to listen to the full episode!

Speaker Bio: Kate Bergsma | Partner Development Manager - Microsoft

Known for her passion, creativity, and dedication, Kate Bergsma is a veteran Microsoft sales and marketing professional committed to the small and medium-sized business segment. In her role as Microsoft Canada’s Partner Development Manager, she empowers Microsoft’s national Indirect Provider partners, and their channel of 1000s of resellers, to grow their businesses by helping Canadians with technology solutions.

Over a 25-year span, Kate has held diverse sales and marketing roles at Microsoft, at agencies, as well as being an entrepreneur herself. Along the way, she has earned several awards including a Canadian Marketing Association Gold Award and an International Association of Microsoft Partners award. Because of her extensive experience and training, she is often called upon to mentor and deliver talks on empathy and emotional intelligence in the workplace – to help others build skills for more effective communication and teamwork.

Kate and her husband are parents of three active children and are active in the community. Bergsma has sat as President of Volunteer Hamilton’s board of directors, lecturer, guest speaker and judge at McMaster University’s Business Case and other marketing competitions. As well as several television and podcast appearances. She has a degree in Rhetoric and Professional Writing from the University of Waterloo.

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On this episode, we bring on fellow car enthusiast Sonduren to talk about his experience using Turo. To break it down simply, Turo is a car sharing marketplace that allows you to lend or rent your own car for periods of time when it isn't being used. We discuss whether this is something you could be using to make additional passive income. We talk about the best cars to rent, how much money you can make as a host. We also talk through a real scenario for a Corvette C8. We also look at the functionality and experience of Turo both as a host and as a guest.

Guest: Sonduren Fanarredha (Canadian Rider)

Links from the Episode:

  • https://turo.com/ca/en
  • https://instagram.com/canadianrider_
  • https://youtube.com/c/canadianrider
  • 'Should You Turo Your Car?' YoutTube Episode: https://youtu.be/8m0WiN7rEHk

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On this episode we bring on Jordan Soloman or otherwise known as (J solo, Solo) is an independent rapper, singer, songwriter, and producer. With several hit singles Jordan has collected over 25 million streams on just Spotify alone. In this episode, Jordan will take us through his journey as an independent artist in the music industry. He will give us some perspective on the steps he has taken to make a name for himself to build a career as a professional music artist. He also gives words of advice for any other creators looking to do the same. Jordan also gives us some insight on what to expect in the future as he looks to make an impact throughout 2022. Check out some of Jordan's content and resourced mentioned in the links below!

Instagram instagram.com/jordsolo

Spotifyhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/3F2OHxH7rWTkyfchtYA7bQ

Distrokid https://distrokid.com/

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On this podcast, we bring on two of the co-founders for the upcoming NFT project Hatchlingz, Jordan, and Tanner. They take us through understanding the world of NFTs answering questions anyone new or familiar with the space might have. We also discuss the current and potential future state of the NFT world. Whether you're looking into an NFT project or wondering how to get in on the Hatchlingz project specifically, we got you covered on this episode. With their project set to launch at the end of February, Jordan and Tanner fill us in on the project roadmap and things they have planned for the future.

See below for a list of links and reference material from the episode:

Website: https://www.hatchlingznft.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/HatchlingzNFT

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

Private Access Link to Hatchlingz Discord: https://discord.gg/mff789jtbx

Other resources mentioned in the show:

MetaMask: https://metamask.io/

OpenSea: https://opensea.io/

Newton (Crypto Exchange): https://web.newton.co/r/Z78HY8

Topics: #NFT #Crypto #Hatchlingz #Metamask #Opensea

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Getting sound advice surrounding the decision to have kids while continuing to succeed in your career can be difficult. At times people may feel very alone in making these decisions and would value the sound advice of a fellow mother. We've brought together four amazing mothers who are also continuing to excel in the careers to get their perspectives and advice.

In this episode we discuss the decision of HOW LONG OF A MATERNITY LEAVE YOU SHOULD TAKE, what may weigh into that decision, how to plans for it and what to do if you need to change your decision while already on maternity leave.

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Getting sound advice surrounding the decision to have kids while continuing to succeed in your career can be difficult. At times people may feel very alone in making these decisions and would value the sound advice of a fellow mother. We've brought together four amazing mothers who are also continuing to excel in the careers to get their perspectives and advice.

In this episode we discuss the decision of WHEN TO HAVE KIDS, what things to consider (and not dwell on) and how it has (or hasn't) affected each mothers' career.

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We talk to Jake about the most current trends in education - before, during or after our current education systems. What are the skills employers are looking for and how can you increase your employability from anywhere! What tools are available and how can you get setup for career success TODAY for FREE. 

FREE RESOURCES: https://opportunity.linkedin.com

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We talk about the journey of building a Startup, the skills needed and most importantly how to decide when to leave where you might be working now to pursue it! We talk about where you can pull inspiration from, what its like to navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship and what is important to know while deciding when something should be a side hustle or start to become your full time job. Erica tells us about the entire journey from her start in Finance to her founder journey as CEO at Vacation Fund to joining the founding team at Lobby.

Want to learn more about Lobby? Lobby is the first platform to effectively facilitate human connection over video that mimics the way groups of people meet and socialize with one another in person. CHECK IT OUT: https://lobby.app/

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We talk about finding passion and purpose in your career. Follow Ricardo's career journey to understand how he found deeper meaning in work, leveraged the platform of his company and made the decision to act now around his life long ambitions. We talk about how to find the work that will unlock your full potential while learning about the importance of improving accessibility and inclusion mandates at work and in our own lives. Get ready for a knowledge packed discussion!

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We talk about the importance of building your personal brand. Where to get started and what are some of the most important things to consider. We discuss the evolution of Sonduren's career journey and dig into the importance of continuous learning and development at work and beyond. This video is for everybody looking to elevate themselves beyond simply a role title at their current job.

Check out Sonduren's Canadian Rider YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/CanadianRider

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We talk about the search for valuable mentorship as part of your career but also your life. What are some considerations when seeking out mentorship, overcoming your fears and ways to ensure your mentorship is effective. This video is for anyone looking for mentors or trying to understand how to be a great mentor.

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We talk about navigating career changes, the things you should consider and advice for those unsure where to go next. We cover the key takeaways from each role, including working at IDC, Microsoft and some of Canada's top growth tech companies. If you are considering a change or torn on what your career journey should look like than make sure to follow a few of the tips shared in this video!

Subscribe to the YouTube Channel here

Interested in the book we mentioned? Get AI for Lawyers here