Founders Focus

Are You Actively Pursuing Hypergrowth? – with Vinicius Neris, Co-founder of InEvent

julie.gelb@upside.com (vinicius neris, scott case) — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 17:36:20 +0000

What are the challenges of hypergrowth – and how do you get after it?

Vinicius Neris, co-founder of InEvent, has learned a lot from navigating rapid business growth over the past year.

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to learn and connect with other founders.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

The Who, What, Why Behind Thriving Company Cultures – with Andrew Freedman, Managing Partner at SHIFT

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Andrew Freedman) — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 13:08:18 +0000

How do you define, measure, and build a high-performing company culture?

Andrew Freedman, Managing Partner at SHIFT, breaks down what it means to scale a thriving business from day 1.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/3k1sYPh

💡 Read key takeaways: https://bit.ly/3iCluCJ

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to learn and connect with other founders.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

Distill Your Marketing Into Something Digestible – with Vivek Sharma, Co-founder & CEO at Movable Ink

julie.gelb@upside.com (Vivek Sharma, Scott Case) — Mon, 9 Aug 2021 12:59:38 +0000

Are you driving performance and impact through digital marketing?

Vivek Sharma, co-founder and CEO of Movable Ink, shares how you increase your ROI from your marketing efforts.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/3Cy1OaU

💡 Key Insights: https://bit.ly/3AngQOU

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

Craft Your Business Origin Story – with Lyn Graft, Founder of Storytelling for Entrepreneurs

julie.gelb@upside.com (Lyn Graft, Scott Case) — Thu, 5 Aug 2021 12:43:26 +0000

Having a tricky time nailing your founder story?

What can you do to engage your audience?

How do you know the best channels and ways to share your story?

Lyn Graft is passionate about helping people, specifically founders, learn how to use storytelling to grow their business.

Lyn Graft is the founder of Storytelling for Entrepreneurs and he's picked up tips and tricks that leaders can use to develop their business narrative.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/2VzIfhj

💡 Key insights: https://bit.ly/3jHYr91

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

Your Business Will Die Without Strong Alignment – with Nate Smith, Founder & CEO of Lever

julie.gelb@upside.com (Nate Smith, Scott Case) — Tue, 3 Aug 2021 17:21:46 +0000

Circumstances change all the time. People change. Markets change. Opportunities show up at your front door.

How can you make sure you're open to new opportunities – while not changing direction constantly?

Nate Smith, founder and CEO of Lever, shares how authentic conversations are key to team alignment.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/3A8dBe0

💡 Key takeaways: https://bit.ly/37iB4ge

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

What It Takes To Scale Your Account Based Marketing – with Kris Rudeegraap, Co-Founder & CEO of Sendoso

julie.gelb@upside.com (Kris Rudeegraap, Scott Case) — Wed, 28 Jul 2021 15:37:34 +0000

How can you use account based marketing to acquire and retain your target audience?

In this /Founders Focus episode, Kris Rudeegraap, co-founder & CEO of Sendoso, shares how you can design and refine your ABM strategy.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/3rFySc6

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

Customization & Nuance In Your Go-to-Market – with You Mon Tsang, Founder & CEO of ChurnZero

julie.gelb@upside.com (You Mon Tsang, Scott Case) — Mon, 26 Jul 2021 17:28:46 +0000

Go-to-Market is one of the most underappreciated parts of building a business.

In this /Founders Focus episode, You Mon Tsang, founder and CEO of ChurnZero, shares his experience bringing four companies to market.

Get a crash course on how you should be thinking about your go-to-market strategy.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/3rxJauQ

💡 Read key takeaways: https://bit.ly/3yd4rwb

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

Focus on Product Adoption Before Retention – with Forest Key, Founder & CEO of Voodle

julie.gelb@upside.com (Forest Key, Scott Case) — Wed, 21 Jul 2021 15:20:42 +0000

How can you build your product in a way that drives behavior change?

In order for people to adopt your product, you need to make the path to behavior change easier.

Forest Key, founder and CEO of Voodle, is working on the fourth product software company he’s launched – and he’s learned a whole lot along the way.

In this /Founders Focus episode, Forest shares how his approach to product development has evolved through trial and error.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/3zmZYHs

💡 Read blog post: https://bit.ly/3ygz2co

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

Integrate Customers Into Your Product Innovation – with Davyeon Ross, Co-Founder of ShotTracker

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Davyeon Ross) — Mon, 19 Jul 2021 15:19:38 +0000

We all have limited resources – even if you’re Apple or Google.

So how do you approach innovation and create new products or services when you have those constraints?

Davyeon Ross, co-founder of ShotTracker, has a great framework for innovating on a budget.

Davyeon also partners with RGA on Coalition Venture Studio, which aims to democratize access to capital, connections, education, and resources for underrepresented founders. Check it out and spread the word to your network.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/36J85BR

💡 Read key takeaways: https://bit.ly/3l6vOnX

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

Are You All In On The Cloud? – with Patrick Quinn, Co-Founder & CEO at Webapper

julie.gelb@upside.com (Patrick Quinn, Scott Case) — Mon, 12 Jul 2021 15:06:20 +0000

If you're building your own product or running a business of any kind, you should be taking advantage of cloud services and tools.

Patrick Quinn, co-founder and CEO of Webapper, has tons of advice after 20 years of helping companies scale agile teams in the cloud.

Hear what lessons Patrick has learned after 20 years in the business.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/3hww7X9

💡 Read key takeaways

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

Early Stage Founders Are Thinking Differently About Business – with Jeff Cherry, Founder of Conscious Venture Lab

julie.gelb@upside.com (Jeff Cherry, Scott Case) — Tue, 6 Jul 2021 13:09:03 +0000

Jeff Cherry, founder of Conscious Venture Lab, is invested in supporting early stage founders on their entrepreneurial journeys.

From expectation management to stakeholder theory, Jeff has lessons to share that are relevant to founders at every stage.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/3xmROyf

💡 Key takeaways: https://bit.ly/3wmP4zG

🗣 Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

💙 Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

✈️ This episode is brought to you by Upside Business Travel. Upside offers a free platform that allows you and your team to book, manage, and track business travel in one place.

Scaling Supply and Demand in Your Two-Sided Marketplace – with Matt Cooper, CEO at Skillshare

julie.gelb@upside.com (Matt Cooper, Scott Case) — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 14:02:00 +0000

Two-sided marketplaces are found across industries and have common pitfalls.

In this episode, Matt Cooper, CEO of Skillshare, shares advice for how entrepreneurs can leverage two-sided marketplaces and the gig economy.

Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/3622032

💡 Key takeaways: https://bit.ly/3qFvj5h

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

Data as a Service is the New SaaS – with Roman Stanek, Founder & CEO of GoodData

julie.gelb@upside.com (Roman Stanek, Scott Case) — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 20:04:33 +0000

Most businesses struggle to get a handle of their data and metrics.

Lack of alignment and process across teams can be a company's downfall.

How can you avoid common pitfalls?

Roman Stanek, Founder and CEO of GoodData, shares how to effectively leverage data in order to scale your product.

Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/35H4hRr

💡 Key takeaways: https://bit.ly/3iOr2ui

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

Flex Your Founder Improv Skills – with Gary Ware, Founder of Breakthrough Play

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Gary Ware) — Mon, 14 Jun 2021 13:19:31 +0000

Some founders are natural improvisors who are able to handle changes on the fly.

Every founder needs to get good at improvisation. It’s a core skill we draw on again and again.

Find out how to get great at improv with Gary Ware, Founder of Breakthrough Play.

🎬 Rather watch? Catch the video recording: https://bit.ly/35hvMAu

💡 Key takeaways: https://bit.ly/3gyezJP

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

What Happens if Founders Ignore Their Health – with David DiPaola, Founder & CEO of Sensibly

julie.gelb@upside.com (David DiPaola, Scott Case) — Fri, 14 May 2021 14:05:50 +0000

How does a founder's health and performance impact their business?

David DiPaola, Founder & CEO of Sensibly, shares how entrepreneurs can think differently about their approach to health and wellness – while navigating the chaos of being a founder.

David is offering free 20 minute coaching sessions for /Founders Focus podcast listeners. No sales pitch, just health and performance coaching.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to connect with other founders and see what topics are up next.

Pick the Board of Directors You Need - with Jocelyn Mangan, Founder & CEO of Him For Her

julie.gelb@upside.com (Jocelyn Mangan, Scott Case) — Thu, 6 May 2021 18:53:36 +0000

It’s never too soon to create a board. How do you think about composition, compensation and expectations?

Co-host Jocelyn Mangan, Founder and CEO of Him For Her, joined Scott to talk about how founders can create an effective board of directors. From early stage through funding rounds, the role of a board can be shaped to be a major asset.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Synergies Between Digital and Physical Worlds – with Tom Matzzie, Founder, President & CEO of CleanChoice Energy

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Tom Matzzie) — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 20:06:29 +0000

Everything you experience in the physical world has a digital wrapper around it. The collision between the digital and physical world is rapidly increasing.

Scott and Tom Matzzie explored what a big opportunity it is for entrepreneurs because digital software has made it easier to solve physical world challenges.

Tom is an expert on climate change and sustainability. He also serves as the founder, president and CEO of CleanChoice Energy.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3pbhxGw

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Will Gen Z Crush Your Business? – with Shaina Zafar, Co-Founder & CMO of JUV Consulting

julie.gelb@upside.com (Shaina Zafar, Scott Case) — Thu, 22 Apr 2021 20:00:01 +0000

Shaina Zafar, co-founder and CMO of JUV Consulting, has built a business around being an expert in everything Gen Z.

Each generation has its own values and expectations, and COVID is continuing to shape how Gen Z thinks and interacts as employees and customers.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3dMBwrn

Key takeaways: https://bit.ly/3fObbJd

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Make Innovation Your Business Superpower - with Charley Moore, Founder & CEO of Rocket Lawyer

julie.gelb@upside.com (Charley Moore, Scott Case) — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 18:18:11 +0000

Necessity is the mother of invention and 2020 created lots of opportunity. Scott and Rocket Lawyer founder and CEO Charley Moore talk about how we can invent our way out of things.

We will recognize how important technology was when we start to look at this in the rearview mirror. Find out how to embrace the constraints and solve problems.

🎬 Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3xdEZXv

💡 Key takeaways: https://bit.ly/347q0kl

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

How Do You Scale Without Losing Your Soul? – with Jeff Grant, Co-Founder & Minister at Progressive Prison Ministries

julie.gelb@upside.com (Jeff Grant, Scott Case) — Thu, 15 Apr 2021 18:18:23 +0000

As you grow your company, how do you bring other people in and not lose what you believe makes you special?

Our co-host Jeff Grant has an interesting story about how he ended up a founder after going to prison. He’s now minister to white collar criminals through Progressive Prison Ministries, and he's figuring out how to scale.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3dli8Br

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Upside of the Post-COVID World – with Lesa Mitchell, General Manager at Techstars

julie.gelb@upside.com (Lesa Mitchell, Scott Case) — Tue, 13 Apr 2021 18:31:45 +0000

Founders in small cities have struggled with the lack of access to talent and ongoing funding. The pandemic has changed these obstacles - it’s actually created solutions.

How has the pandemic shifted the landscape for businesses in non-major markets?

Techstars General Manager Lesa Mitchell joined Scott to talk about the changes she's seen over the past year.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/2OQPezK

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Stick to Your Values During Crisis – with Jeff David, President of The Fitler Club and Founder of Jeff David Hospitality

julie.gelb@upside.com (Jeff David, Scott Case) — Fri, 9 Apr 2021 18:13:32 +0000

The hospitality industry was rocked at the onset of the pandemic, and those businesses that have survived have had to make difficult decisions.

We connected with Jeff David, President of The Fitler Club & Founder of Jeff David Hospitality, to hear how he's adapted his business and supported his team. We also dig into his predictions for the future – what trends will stay or fade.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Gratitude Schmatitude: The Secret Sauce for Human Connection – with Chris Schembra, Founder of 7:47

julie.gelb@upside.com (Upside Business Travel) — Thu, 8 Apr 2021 18:45:30 +0000

Build meaningful relationships that can power your business even when you think you have nothing.

Chris Schembra, author of "Gratitude and Pasta: The Secret Sauce for Human Connection" and Founder and Chief Question Asker at 7:47, joined Scott to talk about developing impactful relationships.

Chris knows it’s difficult bringing people together to create meaningful experiences. It’s why they created the 7:47 Gratitude Experience. Through an evidence-based framework, they’ve sparked over 500,000 relationships, at 300+ events, and helped 170+ companies strengthen client and team relationships in profound ways.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/2Q92kbC

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Creating Flexible Business Models – with Taylor Foxman, Founder & CEO of The Industry Collective

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Taylor Foxman) — Tue, 6 Apr 2021 19:04:43 +0000

Change is accelerating and you need to design your organization to monitor change and adapt.

We spoke with Taylor Foxman, founder and CEO of The Industry Collective, about the pace of change and the importance of being aware of change and being flexible.

Taylor is also Vice President of Communications and Experiences for Parallel, leading cannabis company, and an official member of the Rolling Stone Culture Council.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3uxCZY1

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Change is the Only Constant - with Maria Christopoulos Katris, Founder & CEO of Built In

julie.gelb@upside.com (Maria Christopoulos Katris, Scott Case) — Thu, 1 Apr 2021 18:26:23 +0000

Job candidate attitudes have changed through the pandemic.

Maria Christopoulos Katris, founder & CEO of Built In, shares what’s shifted, how to address their needs and what’s likely to happen as we recover.

As Co-Founder & CEO of Built In, the most powerful network of online communities for people who live and work in technology, Maria is leading a phenomenal team helping to create a path to purpose for the most diverse, progressive and innovative generation. The network of Built In sites helps technology companies showcase exclusive, behind-the-scenes looks at their innovative people, products and cultures.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3dmcL3E

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Meet Your Customers Where They Are - with Brett Schulman, CEO of CAVA

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Brett Schulman) — Wed, 31 Mar 2021 17:43:34 +0000

How can you keep up with shifting customer expectations?

You have to meet your customers where they are.

Brett Schulman, CEO and Co-Founder of CAVA, has been able to adapt to accelerated trends by putting his customers and team first.

(0:43) Pre-COVID trends have been accelerated and amplified
(2:21) Transformational changes that have occurred over the past year
(3:55) Set the bar high in order to keep up with changing environments and regulations
(4:49) Supporting team members
(6:17) Adapting to accelerated trends (curbside pickup, delivery, etc.)
(9:31) Prioritizing digital hospitality to meet customer needs
(14:16) Balancing digital vs. physical channels
(15:51) Geographic shifts = behavior changes of the COVID consumer
(19:11) What trends will stick what will fade away
(23:00) Advice for other business leaders

Check out Scott's Entrepreneur article to learn what he took away from this conversation - "How COVID Has Accelerated Customers Controlling Everything"

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Don't Quit Your Day Job...Yet - with Lenzy Ruffin

julie.gelb@upside.com (scott case, lenzy ruffin) — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 19:01:06 +0000

What do you need to know? What does it take to succeed? Ask for help - don’t see it as a weakness. You need support to succeed.

Lenzy Ruffin, Video Communication Strategist for Park Road Studios, joined Scott as co-host to talk about how entrepreneurs can set themselves up for success before going full-time with their side hustle.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/2PjGYbC

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Overcoming the Oldsmobile Problem with Jack McCullough, Founder and President of CFO Leadership Council

julie.gelb@upside.com (Jack McCullough, Scott Case) — Thu, 25 Mar 2021 15:12:01 +0000

How do you keep your company relevant as demographic shifts are accelerated by technology changes? How do you keep your product and communications updated?

Jack McCullough, Founder and President of the CFO Leadership Council, joined Scott Case to discuss how to stay relevant and current while not alienating your customer base.

Jack leads the CFO Leadership Council that provides world class professional development programs and networking events for chief financial officers.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3rfMyZn

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Confused by PPP Forgiveness? We Aren't.

julie.gelb@upside.com (Hannah Smolinski, Scott Case) — Wed, 24 Mar 2021 19:12:12 +0000

Business owners who took a forgivable loan this year can’t wait to have the balance wiped out, but are hitting a wall when it comes to forgiveness. Rumors of simplified forms.

Confusion over tax implications. Unresponsive lenders. New stimulus. Overwhelming documentation. Fuzzy deadlines… The list goes on.

PPP expert and Upside Financial Senior Advisor Hannah Smolinski joined /Founders Focus to explain how business owners can get out of the frustrating PPP forgiveness holding pattern and move forward with their businesses.

💰 Want help applying for PPP loan forgiveness? Check out Upside Financial.

🎬 Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3vT7XLB

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Crushing the Barriers to Capital with Karen Cahn, Founder and CEO of IFundWomen

julie.gelb@upside.com (Karen Cahn, Scott Case) — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 18:55:07 +0000

Startup capital is biased but the system isn’t going to change any time soon. What strategies can woman and people of color use to get the resources they need to succeed?

Karen Cahn, the founder and CEO of IFundWomen, joins Scott to share her insights on what works to get the financing you need.

Karen is an expert on all things entrepreneurship and startups. From high-profile companies to pre-seed stage startups, she's famous for her no-BS approach to getting new businesses and products off the ground.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3cjonoZ

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Ask Scott Anything

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case) — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 13:24:43 +0000

As founders, it’s easy to spin your wheels on questions that feel impossible to answer.

Scott Case hosted a live Ask Me Anything session to answer all sorts of burning questions. We tackled what was top of mind for our /Founders Focus audience.

Want a fresh perspective on an issue that your peers are grappling with? As usual, Scott shared his unfiltered advice and feedback. No questions were off limits.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3s32y24

Still have questions?

1️⃣ Connect with Scott on LinkedIn.

2️⃣ Join future live /Founders Focus sessions or schedule 1:1 time with Scott.

Intentional Branding to Build An Audience with Rohit Bhargava, Founder of the Non-Obvious Company

julie.gelb@upside.com (Rohit Bhargava, Scott Case) — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 18:50:35 +0000

Everyone and every company has a brand - think of it as what people say about you when you are not in the room. Brands evolve - sometimes over time, sometimes forced and sometimes by accident.

Rohit Bhargava has been evolving his Non-Obvious brand and will share his strategy along with examples of playbooks you can use to be more intentional about your brand.

Rohit helps inspire people to see what others miss and be more open-minded. He is the founder of the Non-Obvious Company and Ideapress Publishing.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3lhsJjc

Read our takeaways: https://bit.ly/3tMR1VB

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Build Your Founder Support System Before Raising Capital - with Melissa Bradley, Managing Partner of 1863 Ventures and Co-Founder of Ureeka

julie.gelb@upside.com (Melissa Bradley, Scott Case) — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:58:43 +0000

To be a successful founder, you need a set of relationships to support you on your journey. Without a supportive community, founders find it almost impossible to overcome the challenges in every business.

Serial entrepreneur, investor, professor and researcher Melissa Bradley co-hosts /Founders Focus with Scott.

Melissa and her co-founders built Ureeka to be available for all, specifically with underserved entrepreneurs in mind. Ureeka is a single platform where Next Wave entrepreneurs have access to the people, programs and connections they need to grow.

Melissa is also Managing Partner at 1863 Ventures, which accelerates New Majority entrepreneurs from high potential to high growth by bridging entrepreneurship and racial equity.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3rzjgWG

Blog post: https://bit.ly/32f9uhz

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

Get Yourself Investor Ready with Allie Burns, CEO of Village Capital

julie.gelb@upside.com (Allie Burns, Scott Case) — Tue, 9 Mar 2021 19:57:27 +0000

Many first time founders set out to raise capital - whether from friends and family or angel investors and seed stage VCS - unprepared.

Allie Burns from Village Capital shares the keys to getting yourself and your business investor ready.

As CEO of Village Capital, Allie is responsible for overseeing her team of “rabble rousers” who are dedicated to creating new opportunities for entrepreneurs who have been traditionally overlooked by early stage investors.

Prior to joining Village Capital, Allie spent seven years working directly with technology pioneers Steve and Jean Case, supporting their work in venture capital, philanthropy and impact investing. As a senior executive at the Case Foundation, Allie was responsible for oversight of the organization’s communications, marketing and partnerships functions.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3v8bjK6

Blog post: https://bit.ly/3fPPJFe

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

What Matters: Leveraging OKRs

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Lisa Shufro) — Thu, 4 Mar 2021 16:19:40 +0000

Objectives and Key Results and CFRs (conversation, feedback, recognition) are part of a goal setting system that John Doerr adapted from Intel that high performing organizations use to exceed expectations and thrive.

Lisa Shufro, Chief Storyteller at WhatMatters.com will share insights about how founders at any stage can use these tools to drive their business forward. As Executive Editor at Measure What Matters, and as co-founder of thesupercurious, Lisa has catalyzed change from the world’s most prestigious stages. She is best known for programs that creatively link science, technology, and business innovations with humanities, arts and culture.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3bYOY98

Blog post: https://bit.ly/2PGQBkQ

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.

The Challenges and Opportunities from Working Anywhere

julie.gelb@upside.com (Duke Chung, Scott Case) — Wed, 3 Mar 2021 13:09:21 +0000

Over the past year our world has changed drastically. As companies and their employees emerge from the pandemic, what changes will be permanent and how will the workforce adapt.

TravelBank CEO Duke Chung joins Scott to talk about the trends he sees continuing and how business leaders can prepare for the new normal. Duke founded TravelBank to make expense and travel management easier and more efficient for business professionals worldwide.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3865IKu

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Conscious Capitalism

julie.gelb@upside.com (Aimy Steadman, Scott Case) — Tue, 2 Mar 2021 21:09:21 +0000

What is conscious capitalism and how can founders be a part of the movement to elevate humanity through business?

Aimy Steadman is a founder and Chief Get Sh*t Done Officer at Future/Proof and a founding board member and board president of Naturally Austin, a community organization whose mission is to foster sustainable and responsible practices, stimulate conscious growth, entrepreneurship and exceptional leadership in the Central Texas natural and consumer products community.

As a college student, Aimy co-founded BeatBox Beverages, featured on Shark Tank. BeatBox Beverages has evolved to Future/Proof Brands, a next generation alcohol beverage innovation platform.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/38l5Nuf

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Go Where They Aren’t

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Christian Duffus) — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 19:55:28 +0000

If you want to get an outsized win, you’ve got to take a look from a different perspective. How do you get inputs that can help you decide to decide better?

Christian Duffus, Founder and CEO of Fonbnk, joins Scott as co-host on this episode of Founders Focus talking about examining your business with diverse thinking and taking advantage of the unexpected. Christian is a successful fintech founder with 3 fintech exits under his belt.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3rb9j1i

Blog post: https://bit.ly/2PuJQCl

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Black & Brown Business Owners Deserve PPP Loans - How to Apply

julie.gelb@upside.com (Hannah Smolinski, Scott Case) — Thu, 25 Feb 2021 13:30:00 +0000

In this bonus /Founders Focus episode, PPP expert Hannah Smolinski explains how minority business owners can apply and maximize PPP funds by the March 31, 2021 deadline.

According to The New York Times, only 12% of Black and Latinx business owners got the PPP assistance they asked for. With the new $284 billion round of PPP funding, we want to offer clarity around the PPP process so there are less barriers to receiving a loan.

Hannah Smolinski breaks down:

How to apply for PPP and maximize funds
Documentation, eligibility, bank relationships, and more
When to think about forgiveness and how to avoid gotchas

Additional Resources:

Watch the video recording: https://bit.ly/3uqN9KF
Apply for a PPP loan with Upside Financial’s lending partner: http://bit.ly/3bp6Qdd
Use Hannah's Upside Financial referral code to save money on your PPP forgiveness application: http://bit.ly/3pNHsTp
Subscribe to Hannah’s PPP YouTube Channel: http://bit.ly/3dsAYXH

This episode was recorded on Thursday, February 18, 2021.

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Level Up Your Communications

julie.gelb@upside.com (Jon Ellenthal, Scott Case) — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:22:37 +0000

Founders are constantly communicating to prospects, employees, customers, and investors. Learn about the common mistakes and how to overcome them with Jon Ellenthal, Co-founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Upside Business Travel.

Jon has started and run multiple companies over the past three decades and is described by Scott as a "communications expert." Listen to Jon and Scott talk about how to strengthen your communications with customers, employees and investors.

Watch the full session: https://bit.ly/3svm1Iz

Blog post: https://bit.ly/39P8Nzq

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

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Crisis Change Can Be A Good Thing – with Justin Rosenberg, Founder & CEO of honeygrow

julie.gelb@upside.com (Justin Rosenberg, Scott Case) — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 19:32:23 +0000

The pandemic has accelerated the adoption of a wide range of things. The restaurant industry has had to work quickly to keep up with necessary changes.

Justin Rosenberg, CEO and Founder of fast-casual restaurant honeygrow, joined Scott to talk through how he's been leading his team through an avalanche of change.

Creating opportunities for his team to grow has been key in how Justin has navigated through this pandemic.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

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Decision Making for Impact

julie.gelb@upside.com (Banks Benitez, Scott Case) — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 19:59:01 +0000

How do CEOs go about making decisions for their companies? On this Founders Focus co-host Banks Benitez, Co-Founder and CEO of special impact accelerator Uncharted, joins Scott to discuss strategies for decision making as a leader.

Uncharted is a social impact accelerator that builds coordinated movements of people to tackle problems from all angles—problems like food deserts, urban poverty, and hate and discrimination. They partner with corporations, foundations, and governments to launch initiatives that connect those working on the same problem and help them go to scale.

Dive deeper into the episode here: http://bit.ly/39pmZOz

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Leaders: Shut Up And Listen

julie.gelb@upside.com (Dave Hilfman, Scott Case) — Thu, 21 Jan 2021 17:49:49 +0000

In this /Founders Focus bonus episode, Scott Case is joined by travel industry pro Dave Hilfman to talk about the future of leadership and business travel.

As the interim CEO at the Global Business Travel Association, GBTA, he finds himself leading an industry whalloped by the pandemic through an unprecedented period.

Listen to hear how today's leadership lessons are helping shape how executives will lead going forward.

Read Scott's take in this LinkedIn article: http://bit.ly/3615m70

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn

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Engagement

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Dave Will) — Tue, 19 Jan 2021 20:54:13 +0000

All businesses work to engage employees, prospects and clients. What are the best strategies and how do you measure engagement? Learn from Dave’s experience of what works and what doesn’t in this session of Founders Focus.

Dave Will is the Co-Founder and CEO of PropFuel, a cloud-based SAAS software platform that is designed to capture the voice of your stakeholders (employees, customers, members, etc) through feedback campaigns.

Dave is also the host of the EO 360° Podcast, a podcast by the Entrepreneurs’ Organization that explores entrepreneurship. Dave previously started, scaled, and sold Peach New Media, a learning platform software company.

Dive deeper into the episode here: http://bit.ly/3btLugl

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Baking Anti-Racism into Your Business

julie.gelb@upside.com (Lisa Wise, Scott Case) — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 20:58:36 +0000

Lisa Wise, CEO at Nest DC and Flock DC, is invested in thinking about how we can challenge certain stereotypes that have plagued the real estate industry for decades. Scott and Lisa talk about the difference between not being racist and being an actively anti-racist business.

Lisa Wise's work has always been cause-driven, entrepreneurial, and community focused. Her career launched in the non-profit sector. Since 2009, Nest DC has been the ideal professional setting for her and the perfect "second act" professionally. As CEO she is highly committed to Nest's success as a company while outside of Nest she has served 4 years as Board President of La Clinica del Pueblo and currently serves as Commissioner Mayor on the DC Condo Association Advisory Council for the District of Columbia.

Dive deeper into the episode here: http://bit.ly/3sfJPB3

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Maximum Performance as a Founder

julie.gelb@upside.com (Marcus Whitney, Scott Case) — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 18:59:44 +0000

The journey from being an employee into a leadership role and entrepreneurship can be draining. Founders often lose focus on the importance of oxygen, hydration, sleep and hobbies outside of business.

Scott and creative entrepreneur Marcus Whitney talk about well being and performance as well as the next level of maturity of the Internet and businesses we haven't seen before.

Marcus Whitney is a creative entrepreneur who dropped out of college and taught himself software development, digital marketing, venture capital, deal-making, public speaking, convening, and leadership. Marcus is founder of Creative Power, author of "Create and Orchestrate," and founder of Jumpstart Foundry.

Dive deeper into the episode here: http://bit.ly/2K3HAiT

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Accepted! Now What?

julie.gelb@upside.com (Stephen Ajayi, Samuel Ajayi, Scott Case) — Thu, 7 Jan 2021 19:18:11 +0000

YearOne co-founders Sam Ajayi and Stephen Ajayi join Scott on Founders Focus to discuss being accepted into an accelerator and the journey through the experience. Learn how they started with a core problem and solution and how those morphed into the business YearOne is today.

YearOne helps individuals coming out of code schools land incredible jobs and support them through their early careers in technology companies.

Dive deeper into the episode here: http://bit.ly/359GzNt

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Financial Therapy for Founders

julie.gelb@upside.com (Shannon McLay, Scott Case) — Tue, 5 Jan 2021 20:38:28 +0000

The emotions of fear and shame often surface for people as they address their finances. Shannon McLay, the founder of the Financial Gym, joins Scott on Founders Focus to discuss her journey and tips she has for founders and would-be founders as they build their businesses.

The Financial Gym is a fitness-inspired, personal financial services company. After a 13-year career working for Bank of America Merrill Lynch, Shannon’s goal was to open a financial services company that would help clients of all financial shapes and sizes.

Dive deeper into the episode here: http://bit.ly/3hJognF

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You Are Good Enough

julie.gelb@upside.com (Fola Dada, Boyede Sobitan) — Tue, 22 Dec 2020 19:35:39 +0000

OjaExpress is a same day ethnic grocery delivery platform that aims to bring people and culture together through food. Founders Fola Dada and Boyede Sobitan join us on Founders Focus. Representation matters. Culture matters. Fola and Boyede created a company that reflects the values of the communities they aim to serve; a company built by immigrants for immigrants.

Boyede paused his career as a board-certified health care administrator and Fola left his role as an engineer at one of the top fintech companies in the world. They joined forces to create OjaExpress because of their passion to ensure that a comparable grocery delivery service existed for underserved communities — people from the same immigrant and ethnic backgrounds as themselves.

Dive deeper into the episode here: http://bit.ly/34BOdQD

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Dress Rehearsal: When the recent past prepares you for a pandemic

julie.gelb@upside.com (Justin Rosenberg, Scott Case) — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 20:01:52 +0000

Justin Rosenberg is the founder and CEO of the fast casual restaurant honeygrow. Find out how the recent past prepared Justin and honeygrow for the challenges of the pandemic that have caused many businesses to fail.

honeygrow brings people together over quality, wholesome + simple foods. For honeygrow, it’s about eating honestly + spending time doing what matters. They buy as local as possible simply because it tastes better—end of story. They love great food, design + tech because that’s who they are.

Dive deeper into the episode here: http://bit.ly/2Wmwmsx

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Getting Unstuck

julie.gelb@upside.com (Erik Hansen, Scott Case) — Tue, 15 Dec 2020 19:36:34 +0000

Erik Hansen, Co-founder & CEO of Mekanic, discusses the importance of relationships and the three questions every business leader should be able to answer.

Erik focuses his talents to springboard brands into the market and leave an unforgettable impression on customers and advocates. His diverse professional background has included leadership roles in nationally recognized creative agencies, associations, higher education and small businesses.

Erik brings over 15 years of experience providing comprehensive and award-winning brand solutions to a wide array of clientele – including brand strategy, marketing communications and creative direction.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/2VZKSX1

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Self Diagnosis: Recognizing YOU Have a Problem

julie.gelb@upside.com (Chase Damiano, Scott Case) — Thu, 10 Dec 2020 18:59:13 +0000

Sometimes it's hard for founders to recognize that challenges in their business might have a common cause: themselves. Chase Damiano will discuss what symptoms to watch for and how to make progress fixing them.

As Founder & CEO of Chase Damiano LLC, Chase helps founders and CEOs get out of the weeds by clarifying their company's vision, building scalable operational strategies, and executing alongside of their team.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/2JHQZg7

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The Power of Design Thinking

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Cameron Hardesty) — Tue, 8 Dec 2020 20:41:25 +0000

Poppy Founder Cameron Hardesty values design and has built her business using technology and placing value on design to give customers a much, much better experience.

Scott and Cameron discuss creativity, design and focusing on customer expectations. Poppy is a direct-to-consumer e-commerce startup aimed at making flowers affordable, easy, and fun. Through their farm partnerships and network of florists, Poppy works to empower women throughout the floral supply chain, from seed to ceremony—or living room.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/3qB6d6W

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Pandemic Pivot: Winning Anyway

julie.gelb@upside.com (Marcus Cobb, Scott Case) — Thu, 3 Dec 2020 21:13:23 +0000

How has the entertainment industry been impacted by the pandemic?

We talk with Jammber CEO Marcus Cobb about the challenges and opportunities in the music industry and how he and his team have overcome some of the obstacles of 2020.

Marcus Cobb is the CEO of Jammber, the music industry’s only end-to-end ownership and split payments platform. Marcus offers an honest look at what it's like to be a founder and facing challenges. He advises all leaders to take their ego out of the equation.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/3g88h1u

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What Journalists Want

julie.gelb@upside.com (Jay Campbell, Scott Case) — Tue, 1 Dec 2020 19:53:57 +0000

In this session of Founders Focus, entrepreneurial journalist Jay Campbell discusses the three businesses he’s built. Jay has insight for founders on what the media is looking for when considering publishing a story on a company, what makes an effective pitch, and what mistakes to avoid.

Jay Campbell is the co-founder of The Company Dime. The Company Dime sells insight. Their mission is quality journalism for those interested in business travel services, expense management practices and travel industry change. Their features, exclusives and analysis equip business travel professionals with vital info for top performance.

Dive deeper into the episode: https://bit.ly/39EXdHT

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You Need to Put Your Mask on First

julie.gelb@upside.com (Susan Kerr, Scott Case) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 21:12:23 +0000

In this special edition of Founders Focus, Susan Kerr talks to members of DC Start Up Week about taking care of themselves and the importance of their mental health.

Susan is the CEO of Advancing Inspiration, LLC. Susan Kerr prides herself on designing and delivering customized programs that advance strategy, leadership, and operational excellence through the creation of simple, clear solutions.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Staying Connected while Working Remotely

julie.gelb@upside.com (Joe Mechlinski, Scott Case) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 21:12:12 +0000

In this special DC Startup Week edition of Founders Focus, Joe Mechlinski discusses engaging your team and building a culture in remote, pandemic times.

Joe Mechlinski is a New York Times bestselling author, speaker, and social entrepreneur. Joe founded SHIFT, a collective of businesses spanning consulting, executive membership, and venture capitalism united by their common mission to revolutionize workforce engagement and transform the world.

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Leading through a Crisis

julie.gelb@upside.com (Tobin Moore, Scott Case) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 21:12:00 +0000

Tobin Moore talks about crisis planning, shutting down, and how his business has shifted dramatically during the pandemic.

Tobin is the co-founder and CEO of DC-based Optoro. Under his leadership, Optoro has expanded from a scrappy start-up to a major industry player, helping the nation’s top retailers address the $500B market of returned and excess goods.

During this special DC Startup Week edition of Founders Focus, Tobin explains the origins of Optoro and how the company has pivoted and prioritized its operations during the pandemic.

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Investor Mindset During the Pandemic

julie.gelb@upside.com (David Hall, Scott Case) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 21:11:37 +0000

Revolution's Rise of the Rest Fund's David Hall talks about the investor mindset in crisis and where the opportunities are right now.

David Hall is the Managing Partner at Revolution’s Rise of the Rest Seed Fund and is responsible for investment sourcing, execution, and oversight of the Fund’s portfolio companies.

During this special DC Startup Week edition of Founders Focus, David talks about the history of Rise of the Rest Fund and start up ecosystems across the United States. He delves into the challenges faced by people of color and women in the startup world and how he sees opportunities to make a difference.

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Encouraging Innovation in a Competitive Environment

julie.gelb@upside.com (Tim Hwang, Scott Case) — Wed, 18 Nov 2020 21:11:19 +0000

Tim Hwang, a co-founder and the CEO of FiscalNote, talks about being in service during the pandemic. FiscalNote is DC's largest tech company that globally powers almost 5,000 of the world's largest and most influential law firms, legal departments, and governments. Tim and his co-founders started FiscalNote in Silicon Valley and moved their startup to DC as a young company.

During this special DC Startup Week edition of Founders Focus, Tim explains how FiscalNote addresses people, products, customers and capital structure and offers insights to other business leaders.

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Yes, We're Open!

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Brett Schulman) — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 21:04:54 +0000

Leaders from the restaurant industry and travel industry discuss the impact of the pandemic on their businesses and how they're working to address and overcome the challenges. Brett Schulman is the CEO of CAVA, a leading health based, mediterranean inspired fast casual restaurant group and producer of premium fresh dips & spreads sold at Whole Foods and other markets.

Brett joins Scott on Founders Focus to delve into how he's addressed the pandemic and the hope he sees for the future.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/3lGpQrz

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It's Not Just About the Numbers

julie.gelb@upside.com (Hannah Smolinski, Scott Case) — Thu, 12 Nov 2020 17:18:20 +0000

Clara CFO Group Founder and CEO Hannah Smolinski joins Founders Focus to talk about her entrepreneurial journey and offer advice on what to expect from service providers. Here's a hint: empathy and authenticity are just as important as facts and figures.

Hannah explains why it's important for small businesses to focus on their goals as they plan their finances.

The Clara CFO Group helps growing small businesses find financial clarity and hosts a YouTube Channel for business owners.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/38vrBEh

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Visual Design in Communications

julie.gelb@upside.com (Mike Parkinson, Scott Case) — Thu, 5 Nov 2020 20:19:18 +0000

After this discussion with Mike Parkinson on Founders Focus, leaders won't look at how they communicate in the same way. Learn the importance of visual design in communication and how you can improve your chances of success by communicating more effectively.

Mike Parkinson is an internationally recognized visual communications expert and APMP Fellow. As principal at 24 Hour Company, he has spearheaded multi-billion dollar projects and created thousands of graphics resulting in billions of dollars in increased revenue for clients. Join us to learn about the elephant and the rider, and why they are so important in communicating your ideas.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/2HWjoO6

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The Employee Experience

julie.gelb@upside.com (Amira El-Gawly, Scott Case) — Thu, 29 Oct 2020 19:57:14 +0000

How do we honor employees and still get the job done? Amira El-Gawly, Founder and CEO of Manifesta, joins Scott on Founders Focus to talk about the balance between employee needs and making sure businesses are viable and profitable.

A radical listener and champion, Amira creates an inspiring and reflective space for leaders to define and design a new future where their culture is thriving, their talents are on fire, and their brand authentically expresses its values internally and externally. Manifesta breathes humanity, intentionality and love into organizations and teams that crave leading with greater purpose.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/2HCJ4Qc

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Culture is Like a Savings Account - Storyblocks, A Best Place To Work Feature

julie.gelb@upside.com (TJ Leonard, Scott Case) — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 19:41:50 +0000

As a winner of The Washington Post's 2020 Best Place to Work award, Storyblocks has done a lot to make its culture what it is today.

In this bonus Founders Focus episode, Scott Case interviews TJ Leonard, CEO of Storyblocks, on the who, what, and why of winning the award. Tune in to hear what advice TJ has for other leaders who want their business to be recognized as a best place to work in the future.

Connect with TJ Leonard on LinkedIn.

Learn more about Storyblocks: https://www.storyblocks.com/

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Living in the Present

julie.gelb@upside.com (Tanvir Aman, Scott Case) — Thu, 22 Oct 2020 17:30:00 +0000

Being present in your business every day can help you get where you want to go in the future. Tanvir Aman, founder and CEO of Dunyha, has had a dynamic 20 year entrepreneurship, management and business development career. He is a member of Founders Focus and passionate about strategies to live in the present and how it can create a foundation for entrepreneurs and founders.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/2TdW40E

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Customer Acquisition and Activation

julie.gelb@upside.com (Craig Zingerline, Scott Case) — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 18:16:17 +0000

What are the things you need to be thinking about when you are trying to acquire customers? How do you build a great campaign? Customer acquisition champion Craig Zingerline talks to Founders Focus to answer these questions.

Craig is a multi-time founder with a deep background in technology, product management, and B2B/B2C marketing & growth. Craig excels at building and running teams and have been a founding or early member of 6 startups. He is well versed in all aspects of growth and is an expert at navigating the step-functions needed to get from zero to scale.

You can follow along with the slides here: https://bit.ly/36XhTYE

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/3mbxCtr

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How Founders Stay Motivated During Quarantine

julie.gelb@upside.com (Alexander Hagerup, Scott Case) — Thu, 15 Oct 2020 18:41:20 +0000

Scott talks to vic.ai founder and CEO Alexander Hagerup about how to lead and stay motivated during the isolation caused by the pandemic. These two veteran founders discuss their experiences and strategies to inspire and motivate you.

Alexander is a passionate entrepreneur creating the worlds first artificially intelligent accounting platform. Alexander built and sold two tech companies by the age of 30 and has insights for founders on hiring, marketing and supporting employees.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/376fahr.

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Finding Success and Meaning During the Pandemic

julie.gelb@upside.com (Doug Holladay, Scott Case) — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 18:54:52 +0000

J. Douglas Holladay talks about how to unpack the uncertainty of current times, the difference between happiness and meaning and the notion of creating space to become a better you. Doug is Founder & CEO at PathNorth and author of "Rethinking Success: Eight Essential Practices for Finding Meaning in Work and Life."

Scott and Doug talk about how founders can take actions and be mindful that happiness is fleeting and meaning is enduring.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/3doiUvE.

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Bootstrapping: Playing Offense in a Time of Defense

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Dane Stangler) — Thu, 8 Oct 2020 19:35:07 +0000

There is no such thing as a simple breakdown of a “wartime vs. peacetime” founder. Experienced founders quickly learn that real life is not an “either or” scenario--it’s both. Day-to-day, often minute-to-minute, you must play defense as new information arises, but you must also play more and more offense as your defense strengthens.

Scott is joined by Dane Stangler, Expert Policy Advisor, to unpack what the unescapable recession means for founders like us. Dane has dedicated his career to working directly with entrepreneurs, policymakers, researchers, and ecosystem leaders everywhere to improve the success rates of startups by improving ecosystem vibrancy.

If you’re a founder keen on thriving through the uncertainty of now, this is a podcast you won’t want to miss.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/3iHYI99

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Survival Mode: Persistence vs. Pivots

julie.gelb@upside.com (Jeff David, Scott Case, Angela Ferrante) — Tue, 6 Oct 2020 20:10:28 +0000

Scott is joined by two founders who have navigated uncertainty like badasses: Angela Ferrante, founder at Laudable and Jeff David, founder at Jeff David Hospitality. They discuss decision-making in uncertain times. Founders need to plow ahead with persistence and with the flexibility to pivot based on new information.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/30ELWSM

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Starting a New Company in the Chaos of Now

julie.gelb@upside.com (Thor Ernstsson, Scott Case) — Mon, 5 Oct 2020 13:10:50 +0000

The pandemic has dramatically changed the world we live in. Learn how the business environment has changed and how your business can plan for the post-pandemic future.

Serial entrepreneur and technologist Thor Ernstsson joins Scott to discuss his work at Alpha and talk about how starting a new company in the chaos of now. Scott has an enlightening discussion with the lead architect of Zynga’s Farmville, co-founder of patient engagement platform Rally Health (formerly Audax Health), co-founder of Alpha and countless other startups and Fortune 500 spinouts.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/2GgrzUC

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Finding Inspiration

julie.gelb@upside.com (Susan Kerr, Scott Case) — Thu, 1 Oct 2020 21:17:10 +0000

We are all learning to navigate through this pandemic and working to thrive. Founders are taking care of themselves and their teams.

On this Founders Focus we explore Susan Kerr's thoughtful, actionable ideas on how we stay strong, motivated and find inspiration.

Susan Kerr is CEO of Advancing Inspiration, LLC.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/33m94XX

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Creating Tests for Your Business

julie.gelb@upside.com (David Bland, Scott Case) — Fri, 25 Sep 2020 14:21:30 +0000

How do you figure out what the riskiest assumption is for your business? There are many experiments you can do to make sure your company is headed in the right direction and David Bland literally wrote the book on it!

David Bland is the Founder and CEO of Precoil.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/3cxg7jp

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Crisis Planning: Managing Against the Future

julie.gelb@upside.com (C'pher Gresham, Duane Rollins, Scott Case) — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 19:43:05 +0000

Until we get through the acute crisis phase, it’s very hard for founders to pay attention to how to take advantage of the uncertainty of now. Historical data indicates that the rebuilding phase will be critical to our nation’s economic recovery, but wrapping a founder’s mind around where to begin is as daunting as ever. Especially with an imminent recession in front of us.

Scott is joined by C’pher Gresham, CEO, and Duane Rollins, VP of Impact and Research, at the prominent social impact incubator, SEED SPOT. C’pher and Duane share how SEED SPOT and the entrepreneurs they’re supporting are managing against the future.

If you’re a founder looking for practical and actionable solutions to what’s next, this podcast is a must-listen.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/3hOrCUI

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Intrapreneur to Entrepreneur

julie.gelb@upside.com (Dr. Paula Stone Williams, Scott Case) — Tue, 15 Sep 2020 20:56:23 +0000

National public speaker Dr. Paula Stone Williams' Ted talks on being a transgender woman have gone viral. She is a national public speaker who specializes in Gender Equity, LGBTQ Inclusion, Executive Leadership, and American Religion.

She joins Scott to talk about her journey as a founder and the challenges of being an entrepreneur.

Dr. Paula Stone Williams is Chair and CEO of RLT Pathways, Inc. Paula is also Pastor of Preaching and Worship at Left Hand Church.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/2Fwax4Q

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Innovation: Wartime vs. Peacetime

julie.gelb@upside.com (Eric Koester, Scott Case) — Fri, 11 Sep 2020 15:12:36 +0000

Companies need to innovate especially during times of crisis. The pandemic is increasing that pressure and accelerating the need for change. Find out how to really innovate during the chaos and figure out a path to winning. Scott is joined by two-time Georgetown entrepreneurship professor of the year and founder/CEO of the Creator Institute, Eric Koester.

Scott and Eric share their insights on wartime vs peacetime innovation and discuss their thoughts on how companies can succeed in this new environment.

Eric Koester is two-time Georgetown Entrepreneurship Professor of the Year and founder/CEO of The Creator Institute.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/32kJIsY

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Trust, Compassion, Stability, and Hope

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, Michael Dauphinee) — Wed, 9 Sep 2020 21:06:19 +0000

Highly sought-after Clifton Strengths expert, Michael Dauphinee believes people drastically underestimate their abilities and the mark they can make on the world. Join us for a discussion on how truth, compassion, stability and hope are anchor points in realizing potential.

Michael Dauphinee is CEO and Principle Consultant of The Dauphinee Group.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/2FfJJW1.

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Straight Talk About Your Business

julie.gelb@upside.com (Carol Roth, Scott Case) — Thu, 3 Sep 2020 18:17:00 +0000

Businesses across the US and the world are handling COVID-19 and looking for ways to survive and succeed. Founders are looking for tools to help them navigate the new normal and thrive. In this Founders Focus episode, Scott is joined by Carol Roth, internationally recognized business expert and frequent media contributor. Carol tells it like she sees it and has advised would-be entrepreneurs, startups and large companies and brands. Make the most of actionable advice and insights from a noted small business advocate.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/2Z1vOtR

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Going Global: Ask Amos Anything

julie.gelb@upside.com (Amos Winbush III, Scott Case) — Tue, 1 Sep 2020 18:44:37 +0000

Founders Focus welcomes back Amos Winbush III for a session where founders ask questions of Amos and his experience as a Tech Founder. As a Black man, he’s also experienced some other challenges that may be familiar for some entrepreneurs and eye opening for others.

Amos Winbush III is CEO of AW3 Media Group and Co-Founder of Forbes8.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/3bfIUIN.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Shift the Work

julie.gelb@upside.com (Joe Mechlinski, Scott Case) — Thu, 27 Aug 2020 17:55:18 +0000

As months pass by during this pandemic, we are starting to realize culture matters more than ever. Co-founder and CEO of SHIFT and best-selling author Joe Mechlinski has stories from his past and ideas on how to overcome doubts and reconnect with your passions.

Joe joins Scott on Founders Focus to discuss actionable strategies and tools to help you lead more effectively.

Dive deeper into the episode here: https://bit.ly/3lzexBU.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Importance of Personal Branding and Compassionate Design

julie.gelb@upside.com (Dave Carroll, Scott Case) — Tue, 25 Aug 2020 18:03:03 +0000

Personal branding is the conscious and intentional effort to create and influence public perception of an individual by positioning them to be trusted and provides credibility to future investors, employees and partners.

Dave Carroll, musician, speaker, and author behind United Breaks Guitars, joins Scott to talk about building a personal brand and compassionate design.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Scar Tissue

julie.gelb@upside.com (Andrew Hoag, Scott Case) — Thu, 20 Aug 2020 20:30:24 +0000

Founders who led through the last financial crisis know that surviving this crisis can set you up for success. For many founders, this is their first time facing a contextual challenge - something truly out their control. Find out what those experienced in living through chaos think about this mess and what you can learn from their experience.

Andrew Hoag, founder and CEO of Teampay, joins Scott Case on Founders Focus to discuss scars they sustained in battle and how founders can learn from their experiences to make it through this pandemic.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Beating the Odds: Riding the Road to Recovery

julie.gelb@upside.com (Donna Harris, Scott Case) — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 19:39:46 +0000

The global pandemic has quickly altered the landscape for businesses in America and around the world. Communities across the nation are deeply broken. The chaos we feel and the challenges we face are not at all random or disconnected. They are, in fact, very interconnected. The brokenness is complex and systemic. As we look to recover from the economic fallout of the shutdown and new reality, there are ways for startups and small businesses to beat the odds and survive and thrive.

Donna Harris, Founder of Builders and Backers, talks to Scott about recovering from the recession.

Watch the live session: https://bit.ly/3tqugaj

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The Dark Side of Being a Founder

julie.gelb@upside.com (Scott Case, F. Scott Moody) — Thu, 13 Aug 2020 17:54:01 +0000

Startup podcasts often focus on success and how companies make it big. The reality for some founders is that sometimes it just sucks, like really sucks. We all have ups and downs, and sometimes it is daunting. Being a founder can be a very lonely place, and most folks don’t realize that others go through it as well because they just don’t talk about it.

Scott Moody, CEO and chief member advocate of K4Connect, joins Scott on Founders Focus discussing how hard it is to be a founder and some of the often unspoken issues faced by entrepreneurs growing their businesses.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Remote Work: This is Not a Sprint

julie.gelb@upside.com (Kari Clark, Scott Case) — Tue, 11 Aug 2020 20:39:56 +0000

As companies have shifted to work-from-home during this pandemic, they have found employee productivity is up, but the increased productivity has come with the dual expense of employee burnout and changes to company culture. In March, many thought we’d be back to normal in a couple of months and now people are realizing many companies might not go back to “normal” until next summer.

In this podcast, Kari Clark, Co-Founder and CEO of Breakout, joins Scott Case on Founders Focus to talk about supporting employees during this new environment.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Underserved, Underrepresented, Underestimated: In It Together

julie.gelb@upside.com (Sekou Kaalund, Amos Winbush III, Scott Case) — Fri, 7 Aug 2020 15:08:50 +0000

Underrepresented entrepreneurs face challenges that other entrepreneurs do not. Join us for a true conversation on morals, ethics, access to opportunities, and breaking down institutions that are historically unavailable to black and brown. Because businesses have measurable outcomes, the entrepreneurship and startup space is a good place to start improving what’s broken in America.

Sekou Kaalund and Amos Winbush III join Scott Case on Founders Focus to discuss how we are all in this together, debunk myths and give a proper definition and examples of allyship.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

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Navigating PPP Forgiveness

julie.gelb@upside.com (John Caldwell, Jen Moyer, Scott Case) — Wed, 5 Aug 2020 18:02:11 +0000

While the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) is still accepting loan applications, nearly 5 million small businesses have received and used loans. Now the challenge is taking advantage of the Forgiveness part of the program. While the SBA has been consistent that the loan will be fully forgiven if the funds are used for payroll costs (60%), interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. Sounds easy, until you dig into the forms, the document requirements - even your bank isn’t totally sure how this is all going to work.

John Caldwell and Jen Moyer join Scott Case on Founders Focus to give an update on where things are right now, what borrowers should think about, and the kinds of documentation they are likely to need.

Have feedback? Connect with Scott Case on LinkedIn.

Visit foundersfocus.com to join the live video sessions, watch past sessions, and see what topics are up next.