Inside Startup Investing with Chris Lustrino

Madeline Fraser, Gemist — Modernizing Jewelry With AI and Custom Ecommerce

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Madeline Fraser) — Thu, 7 May 2026 17:28:17 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Madeline Fraser joins Chris Lustrino to discuss how Gemist is bringing AI, automation, and modern ecommerce infrastructure to the jewelry industry.

Inspired by her own frustrating experience buying an engagement ring, Madeline built Gemist to help jewelry brands, retailers, and manufacturers modernize the highly manual process of custom jewelry sales. The company’s platform enables customers to design and visualize jewelry online while automating pricing, rendering, quoting, and product configuration workflows behind the scenes.

Chris and Madeline explore why jewelry has historically lagged behind technologically, how COVID accelerated omnichannel adoption, and why younger generations of jewelers are increasingly embracing digital transformation. They also dive into Gemist’s SaaS business model, AI rendering infrastructure, onboarding process, and the company's vision of evolving into a powerful jewelry data platform over time.

The conversation offers valuable lessons for founders building vertical SaaS businesses, especially in traditional industries resistant to change. For investors, it highlights a large global market undergoing rapid digital and AI-driven transformation.

George Moringer, Tapouts — The $5M Child Wellness Platform Teaching Kids Emotional Intelligence

support@kingscrowd.com (George Moringer, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino speaks with George Moringer about building a platform that teaches kids emotional intelligence through engaging, gamified group sessions. [00:00]

Tapouts focuses on helping children ages 4–16 understand and regulate their emotions by turning behavioral science into interactive, easy-to-use tools. [01:00]

George shares how the idea originated from his interest in resilience and stress psychology—and the realization that these skills are rarely taught early in life. [02:30]

Early product challenges revealed a key issue: parents valued the product, but kids didn’t want to participate—forcing the team to rethink engagement entirely. [04:30]

That led to a major pivot toward gamification, rewards, and group-based sessions, which dramatically improved retention and participation. [06:30]

Since then, Tapouts has scaled to over 20,000 kids served and more than 200,000 sessions delivered without missing a single class. [08:30]

The company’s model leverages small group sessions to create strong unit economics, with margins around 70% while maintaining high engagement. [10:30]

George breaks down how Tapouts acquires customers through performance marketing, referrals, and growing organic demand. [12:30]

Looking ahead, the company plans to expand its programs, increase lifetime value, and explore new distribution channels like schools, employers, and insurers. [15:00]

Ultimately, Tapouts is building a preventative approach to child wellness—teaching emotional intelligence before problems escalate. [17:00]

Inside Startup Investing: Carter Fowler, Totem — The Viral Offline Device Solving a Universal Problem

support@kingscrowd.com (Carter Fowler, Chris Lustrino) — Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:03:23 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino sits down with Carter Fowler, founder and CEO of Totem, a company building decentralized, offline communication technology.

Totem’s flagship product—a wearable compass-like device—lets users locate friends and family without relying on cell service or Wi-Fi. Originally built for music festivals, the product has quickly expanded into families, travel, outdoor recreation, and even accessibility use cases.

With over 50,000 users, $3.5M+ in revenue, and profitability achieved in under two years, Totem is proving both strong product-market fit and viral distribution.

Carter shares how the company leveraged organic growth to reach hundreds of millions, why decentralized tech may define the future of connectivity, and how Totem is building both a consumer hardware business and a powerful data layer on real-world human movement.

Alaffia: Building a Profitable Social Enterprise Connecting West Africa to Global Markets

support@kingscrowd.com (Olowo-n'djo Tchala, Chris Lustrino) — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 00:14:21 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino speaks with Olowo-n’djo Tchala about building Alaffia, a mission-driven consumer brand rooted in ethical sourcing. (00:00–01:30)

Olowo-n’djo shares his upbringing in Togo and how it shaped his vision for a new economic model. (01:30–04:30)

He explains how Alaffia organizes women-led cooperatives to produce shea butter and connect them to global markets. (04:30–08:30)

The discussion covers fair trade economics, including paying above-market wages while maintaining strong margins. (08:30–13:00)

They explore how Alaffia scaled into a national brand through persistence, retail distribution, and product-market fit. (13:00–17:00)

Finally, Olowo-n’djo reflects on challenges with outside investors and why maintaining mission alignment is critical for long-term success. (17:00–22:00).

Solgaard: Building a Sustainable Travel Brand by Turning Ocean Plastic into Premium Products

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Adrian Solgaard) — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 03:14:11 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino speaks with Adrian Solgaard about building a sustainable travel brand rooted in ocean plastic innovation. (00:00–01:30)

Solgaard began as a Kickstarter campaign and quickly gained traction with consumers seeking functional, eco-friendly products. (01:30–03:15)

Adrian explains how the company turns ocean-bound plastic into premium luggage and accessories. (03:15–05:40)

They discuss product design, including modular systems that differentiate Solgaard in a crowded travel market. (05:40–08:10)

The conversation dives into scaling challenges, including manufacturing, supply chains, and maintaining quality. (08:10–11:20)

Finally, they explore brand storytelling, mission alignment, and how sustainability drives long-term consumer loyalty. (11:20–14:30)

Fragment Media: Building a $40M Digital Media Business by Selling Quality Journalism

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Nicholas White) — Fri, 17 Apr 2026 00:03:56 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino speaks with Nicholas White, CEO of Fragment Media, about building a subscription-first digital media company. (00:00–01:31)

Fragment has generated over $40M in revenue and built a growing base of 20,000+ paying subscribers by focusing on high-quality, niche journalism. (01:31–02:13)

Nicholas explains the company’s flagship publication, Nautilus, and how it delivers deep, contextual science storytelling beyond headline-driven news. (02:43–04:48)

They discuss Fragment’s target audience—highly educated, high-income readers increasingly willing to pay for quality content. (04:58–06:37)

The conversation dives into growth strategy, including content quality, social distribution, newsletters, and paid acquisition funnels. (07:02–08:31)

Nicholas outlines the company’s long-term strategy of building a portfolio of niche publications (“mustard, not ketchup”) to capture a large but fragmented market. (10:55–12:48

Finally, they explore revenue transition from advertising to subscriptions and the path toward scaling to hundreds of thousands—or even millions—of paying subscribers. (16:16–18:21)

Reinventing the Wheel: How GACW Is Building Airless Suspension Wheels for Extreme Performance

support@kingscrowd.com (Harmen van Kamp, Chris Lustrino) — Fri, 3 Apr 2026 18:27:58 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino speaks with Harmen van Kamp, CEO of GACW, about reinventing the wheel with an airless suspension system. (00:00–01:45)

GACW’s technology integrates suspension directly into the wheel, eliminating traditional tires, shocks, and complex components. (02:10–04:20)

Originally built for military and extreme terrain use cases, the product is now expanding into broader commercial applications. (05:30–07:10)

Harmen explains the engineering challenges behind the system and how it improves durability, maintenance, and performance. (08:40–11:15)

They discuss early traction, partnerships, and how the company is approaching manufacturing and scaling production. (12:30–15:45)

Finally, the episode explores long-term opportunities across EVs, defense, and industrial mobility markets. (16:20–19:00)

How Sen-Jam Is Building a Portfolio of Inflammation Drugs

support@kingscrowd.com (Jim Iversen, Chris Lustrino) — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 03:04:58 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino speaks with Jim Iversen, CEO of Sen-Jam Pharmaceutical, about building a platform of therapeutics targeting inflammation across multiple diseases. (00:00–01:28)

The company is advancing a pipeline of drugs addressing conditions like COVID, alcohol-related inflammation, and arthritis, with multiple Phase 2 trials completed. (01:28–02:27)

Jim explains how drug development works—from preclinical research to Phase 1 (safety), Phase 2 (efficacy), and Phase 3 (confirmatory trials). (04:14–06:05)

They explore how Sen-Jam uses AI and over one million data points to validate its platform and identify new drug opportunities. (08:32–09:30)

The discussion also covers how the company allocates resources across its pipeline and its strategy to license drugs after Phase 2 rather than fully commercialize them. (13:10–14:32)

Finally, Jim breaks down the economics of drug licensing, potential valuation inflection points, and how investors can think about returns in biotech. (19:31–21:58)

Atari Hotels: Building a $124M Gaming-Themed Destination in Phoenix

support@kingscrowd.com (Jordan Taylor, Chris Lustrino) — Wed, 18 Mar 2026 19:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino speaks with Jordan Taylor, managing member of Atari Hotels, about the development of a $124 million Atari-themed destination hotel planned for downtown Phoenix. (00:00–02:14)

The project combines real estate development with immersive gaming culture, featuring a 91-room hotel, gaming-inspired experiences, and a venue for esports events, concerts, and creator gatherings. (03:21–13:14)

Jordan explains how the team secured licensing rights from Atari, why Phoenix’s population growth and urban revitalization make it an ideal location, and how the hotel is designed to serve both travelers and the local community. (06:34–10:01)

The conversation also dives into the investment structure behind the project, where investors acquire a majority interest in the physical real estate rather than just a brand concept. (04:39–05:36)

Jordan walks through the $124 million capital stack, including equity from investors and family offices alongside construction financing. (05:42–06:16)

Finally, they discuss how stabilization and refinancing could provide early liquidity for investors, followed by ongoing cash flow distributions and potential exit scenarios down the road. (19:28–21:10)

Why Most Crowdfunding Campaigns Fail (And How Top Issuers Avoid It)

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Jason Fishman) — Thu, 5 Mar 2026 23:47:43 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino sits down with Jason Fishman, founder of Digital Niche Agency (DNA), one of the earliest and most active “capital raising agencies” in equity crowdfunding. (00:00–02:45)

|Jason breaks down what actually drives successful Reg CF and Reg A+ campaigns in 2026: setting traffic goals, understanding conversion math (average investment size vs. how many investors you need), and building a multi-channel funnel across Meta, Google, newsletters, retargeting, webinars, events, and organic content. (04:25–10:06)

They also unpack the “crowd effect” that causes many campaigns to look flat mid-raise before spiking near the deadline. (10:19–12:30)
Finally, they explain why consistent updates and investor relations between rounds can materially influence outcomes—both by improving trust and by strengthening repeat-investor participation over time. (23:04–25:55)

FDA Progress + Manufacturing Scale: Inside Pirouette Pharma's Latest Round

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Conor Cullinane) — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000

Pirouette Pharma CEO Conor Cullinane returns to Inside Startup Investing to share the company’s progress since its last Wefunder raise—spanning FDA engagement, IND planning, and major steps toward scalable manufacturing.

Pirouette is building a disc-shaped, push-button delivery system for injectable medications—aiming to turn the “violent, error-prone” experience of legacy auto-injectors into something closer to the Staples Easy Button: push once, and the device handles the rest.

Chris and Conor discuss why intimidation and usability are major barriers in today’s injection landscape, how Pirouette is approaching OTC naloxone via a combination-product regulatory pathway, what a pharmacokinetic study looks like, and why Pirouette is investing in manufacturing capacity to support both commercialization and pharma partnerships.

Chapters

00:44 What Pirouette is building 03:42 Progress since last raise 06:26 FDA pathway explained 09:08 PK study + size/cost/timeline 13:07 Partnerships vs. standalone commercialization 16:15 Revenue timing + adoption expectations 20:12 Manufacturing scale plan 23:34 Founder “why” 26:07 Investor close

From 7 Years to 12 Weeks: Sunstone Health’s AI for Epilepsy & Autism

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Joshua Resnikoff) — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 04:32:21 +0000

Sunstone Health CEO Joshua Resnikoff joins Chris Lustrino to explain how Sunstone uses AI on healthcare claims data to proactively identify children with developmental delay—starting with epilepsy and autism—and help families reach the right specialists and diagnostics faster.

They break down what claims data is, why the healthcare system is reactive by default, and how Sunstone’s approach can compress what often takes years into roughly weeks by flagging high-need cases, coordinating advanced diagnostics, and delivering actionable next steps. Joshua also shares Sunstone’s go-to-market strategy (positioned as an employer-paid benefit), why the pricing model is designed to reduce “point-solution bloat,” and how expansion could move across employers, TPAs, reinsurers, and large insurers.

00:00 Needle-in-a-haystack intro
03:13 What Sunstone does (AI + claims data)
05:32 Flagging patients vs. diagnosing
07:21 Employer benefit + privacy model
15:54 GTM + sales cycle reality
17:57 Outcome-based pricing model
20:16 Unit economics ($10k per case)
22:11 Expansion paths + other diseases
26:23 Fundraise use of proceeds
28:03 Investor closing

Atombeam: AI Data Compaction That Sends 4× More Data Without New Networks

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Charles Yeomans) — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000

Atombeam CEO Charles Yeomans joins Chris Lustrino to break down a deceptively simple idea with massive implications: make data smaller while it’s streaming so you can move and process more of it—without upgrading networks.

Charles explains Atombeam’s commercial product NeurPack, how it can often quadruple effective bandwidth, and why this matters across IoT, smart meters, satellites, defense, oil & gas wells, fintech, and eventually data centers and GPU utilization. They also dig into the realities of commercialization—choosing near-term deals that close fast while still pursuing multi-year “industry standard” opportunities—and why execution (not invention) is the real differentiator.

00:00 What Atombeam does (pizza analogy)
03:13 NeurPack explained
05:35 Why 95% of IoT data doesn’t move
09:38 “Like launching 3 more satellites”
13:57 Commercialization + customers
16:31 Data centers + GPU utilization
24:29 Defense traction + partnerships
26:44 What success looks like (distribution)

Scaling Regenerative Ag with Swarms of Robots

support@kingscrowd.com (Clint Brauer, Chris Lustrino) — Wed, 4 Feb 2026 21:00:00 +0000

Founder Clint Brauer explains how Greenfield Robotics builds compact, row-running robots that mow weeds and lay mulch while enabling nighttime foliar feeding—helping farms reduce herbicides and improve soil biology. He shares the personal catalyst (his father’s Parkinson’s), why tillage damages soil ecosystems, and how small, autonomous swarms can cover large acreages more cheaply than traditional machinery. We dig into go-to-market (from RaaS to equipment sales with software/telemetry fees), manufacturing with partners, and adoption curves from organic innovators to conventional growers. Brauer outlines the roadmap (attachments, reliability, self-charging), unit counts across 17 states, and potential exit paths with ag OEMs like John Deere—all while keeping the mission clear: get chemicals out of agriculture.

Highlights include...

Why “weed by day, foliar-feed by night” changes farm economics
How mulch from cut cover crops suppresses weeds & feeds soil
RaaS → leases → direct sales: what farmers prefer (and why)
Swarm autonomy vs. ever-bigger tractors—cost & uptime math
Manufacturing scale via Amity Technologies; why small wins here
Early-adopter profile: regenerative, organic, and safety-driven growers
Exit lanes with major OEMs—and the case for remaining independent

Why People Buy: Inside Solsten's Cognitive-Behavioral AI

support@kingscrowd.com (Joe Schaeppi, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Today, Chris sits down with Joe Schaeppi, co-founder & CEO of Solsten—a deep-tech company mapping human psychology and turning it into actionable AI for creative, targeting, and product personalization. After 8 years of R&D, Solsten's “human context layer” helps enterprises and SMBs understand why people act the way they do—then adapt ads, products, and AI agents to match. Clients like LEGO and Peloton report creative wins and 3× conversion lifts, while a new self-serve product opens the stack to smaller teams.

Highlights include...
• Building a cognitive-behavioral AI model from clinical-grade psychometrics and authentic behavior data
• Why “creative is the new targeting” (Meta’s Andromeda) and how psychology-matched creative cuts CPI/raises LTV
• Personalization beyond demographics—training AI agents to speak in users’ thinking and communication styles
• Go-to-market shift: from years of R&D to scale (>$35M raised; investors incl. RedBird & Galaxy)
• Use cases across gaming, fintech, health/fitness, hospitality, and more

Scaling Whiskey in a Down Market: Cleveland’s Global Pivot

support@kingscrowd.com (Tom Lix, Chris Lustrino) — Wed, 7 Jan 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Cleveland Whiskey was my first-ever equity crowdfunding investment (May 16, 2016), and founder/CEO Tom Lix has sent detailed quarterly updates ever since. In this episode, we cover 00:00–03:03 why Tom built a technology company in spirits—not just another craft label; 03:03–06:09 how pressure-aging in stainless tanks unlocks flavors from non-oak woods (black cherry, hickory, apple) and produces great whiskey in hours not years; 06:09–09:27 the pivot to concentrates and why India’s “Indian-Made Foreign Liquor” niche is a game-changer for price and margin; 09:27–12:47 the new 45,000 sq. ft. Cleveland facilities, 12× capacity today with room to double again, plus how shorter cycle times unlock multi-shift throughput; 12:47–16:09 resilience through a U.S. whiskey slump, tariffs, and changing consumer trends; 16:09–20:03 valuation, real-estate upside on Cleveland’s waterfront, and IP; and 20:03–28:19 the founder mindset—why Tom keeps going and how global demand (India, SE Asia, Africa) can drive the next chapter.

Robots as a Service: Macrovey's Recurring Revenue Model in the Aisles

support@kingscrowd.com (Matt Labinski, Chris Lustrino) — Tue, 23 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Read our Macrovey deal analysis (closed) on Kingscrowd

Robotics hype is everywhere—but who actually makes robots work on real warehouse floors? In this episode, Chris sits down with Macrovey Director of Business Development Matt Labinski to unpack how Macrovey designs fully autonomous, material-handling systems that act like a warehouse “Robotics OS.” We start with what Macrovey is and isn’t (00:03)—the company doesn’t manufacture robots, it integrates best-in-class OEMs through proprietary orchestration software. Matt explains the model (00:32): up-front design + install and recurring software/maintenance—plus a Robots-as-a-Service option that lowers CapEx. We dive into who buys (06:28): e-commerce, 3PLs, pharma, defense (U.S. Air Force) and even smaller 10k–100k sq ft facilities. Category context (07:31): warehouse robotics penetration is still surprisingly low; Macrovey targets the SMB/mid-market others ignore. We cover why OEMs and warehouses need an integrator (09:09), the sales cycle and deal sizes (12:22)—from $50k pilots to $3M+ programs—and how modular, mobile systems (25:03) move with demand. Finally, we hit the AI layer (27:31): machine learning that optimizes slotting, picking, and vision-based QA. If you want exposure to warehouse autonomy without betting on a single robot, Macrovey’s middle-layer, recurring-revenue approach may be the de-risked way to play it.

Paladin Power: The Inverter Breakthrough Making Homes Truly Off-Grid

support@kingscrowd.com (Ted Thomas, Sam Fiske, Chris Lustrino) — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 23:53:14 +0000

Read our deal analysis on Paladin

Paladin Power CEO Ted Thomas—a U.S. Navy veteran with 20+ years in energy storage and the named inventor on multiple U.S. patents for stackable batteries and integrated power systems—joins Inside Startup Investing to explain how he helped pioneer integrated storage and why Paladin’s patented, fire-safe, all-in-one system can make true home energy independence practical. We cover why the inverter is the real bottleneck, how Paladin’s stackable 10 kW architecture fast-charges EVs and extends battery life, and how the single-device design replaces a tangle of inverters, batteries, and chargers for faster installs and lower cost. Ted shares traction (incl. enterprise wins like Disney), a revenue jump from < $1M to $7–$8M this year with $20M+ in sight, “Made in USA” manufacturing with Jabil, and what’s next as Paladin pushes a decentralized power future.

News: Paladin engages Aegis Capital Corp. for IPO advisory while it evaluates capital-markets options—no assurance of any IPO; timing/terms subject to market, regulatory and due-diligence outcomes.

Chapters

(00:00) We open with why batteries remain the bottleneck for EVs and home solar, and how Paladin’s inverter-first architecture changes the equation; (03:28) Ted outlines the mission—make every home independent from the grid—plus why legacy systems were designed for grid-tie, not true autonomy; (06:58) we break down the bi-directional, stackable inverters (up to 80 kW in a compact footprint) and how routing solar directly to loads can double battery life; (09:15) cost and efficiency: delivering 30–60% lower system costs versus status-quo builds; (10:29) scaling: U.S. manufacturing with a contract partner, and why distribution/EPC channels are the fastest path to market; (12:00) whole-home power without load shedding, faster installs, and sub-90-minute at-home EV charging; (13:21) IP and moats: utility patents and why copycats face multi-year certification delays; (15:34) use cases and demand drivers—from Disney facilities to homeowners facing rising rates and outages; (20:56) generators vs storage: when backup gensets still make sense and when solar-plus-storage wins; (22:46) Ted’s closing case for investors.

Chad Rosen, Victory Hemp — Clean Protein, Oils & Xylitol from Hemp Seeds

support@kingscrowd.com (Chad Rosen, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 4 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Victory Hemp turns hemp seeds into clean protein, healthy oils, and even xylitol with a solvent-free, patented process built for every aisle. At 00:00 we define what “hemp food” really is; by 01:20 we outline Victory Hemp’s B2B product stack; at 03:00 we unpack the solvent-free patent and why taste/clean label matter. Around 05:00 we hit functionality (emulsifying, gelling, egg replacement). At 06:30 we cover North American supply and USMCA sourcing, then 08:00 the next facility plan (~$21M, equity + USDA B&I/NMTC). By 10:00 we map capacity (> $30M revenue) and path to self-fund growth. At 11:30 we dive into zero-waste (hulls → xylitol), and by 13:00 we close on macro tailwinds: the protein boom, GLP-1 nutrition needs, and renewable fuels potential.

Kevin Morse, Cairnspring Mills — Building the Craft Flour Category at Scale

support@kingscrowd.com (Kevin Morse, Chris Lustrino) — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 10:00:00 +0000

Most flour today is milled for shelf life, not flavor or nutrition. Cairnspring Mills set out to flip that script. Co-founder & CEO Kevin Morse explains how the company created a premium craft flour category by contracting regeneratively grown, higher-margin grains directly from farmers and stone-milling to retain flavor and nutrients, winning over top chefs and bakeries nationwide. We cover the growth story ($5.1M → $6.4M → pacing $7.9M), why demand is pulling them to expand capacity, and the plan to build a dramatically larger mill in Pendleton, OR (with the Umatilla Tribe) as part of a future network of regional mills. Kevin breaks down how “regional at scale” works (quality, resilience, and local grain identity), the sales playbook (foodservice-led; DTC and retail ramp), and opportunities in co-branded “Milled by Cairnspring” products. If you care about better bread—and better agricultural economics—this is a blueprint for rebuilding a staple industry.

Highlights include…

Why industrial roller milling strips flavor & nutrition—and how stone milling restores both
Direct farmer contracts, regenerative practices, and paying for milling/baking quality (not just protein)
Growth: $5.1M (2023) → $6.4M (2024) → ~$7.9M (2025E)
Capacity expansion: Pendleton, OR mill (with Umatilla Tribe) targeting ~110M lbs/yr
Long-term vision: distributed network of regional mills (CapEx ≈ $40M per mill + granary)
Go-to-market: foodservice first (~80%), plus DTC, retail, and co-brand opportunities
Influencer flywheel: chef/baker adoption (e.g., Bianco, Tartine) → organic demand

John Imbriglia, Crowd Street — From Digital CRE Pioneer to Full-Stack Private Markets

support@kingscrowd.com (John Imbriglia, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Founded in 2013, Crowd Street helped popularize online access to commercial real estate. Now CEO John Imbriglia is steering a 2.0 strategy: an institutional-grade private markets platform spanning private equity, private credit, venture capital, and CRE—with lower minimums, improved IRA flows, and heavy investment in education, diligence, and UX. John details Crowd Street’s scale to date (~300K members, ~30K investors, ~$4.5B raised in CRE), the “supply–demand–loyalty” framework driving the rebuild, a new omnichannel acquisition push, and partnering with Callan (advisor to >$4T AUM institutions) to help source and select managers. We cover feeder/registered fund structures (1099s, no capital calls) that bring minimums to five figures for accredited investors, the evolving role of direct CRE deals, and how better IRA integrations reduce friction. If you want a practical roadmap to accessing institutional-style alternatives—from mid-market credit to diversified PE/VC—this one’s for you.

Highlights include…

Crowd Street’s evolution: CRE pioneer → full private-markets platform
Supply–Demand–Loyalty: the 2.0 operating model
Why education & diligence lead the funnel (with Callan as advisor)
Product access: feeder/registered/interval funds, 1099s, five-figure mins
Keeping direct CRE while adding PE, credit, and VC options
Omnichannel growth: targeted campaigns in Pittsburgh & Boston
Better IRA experience via an integrated self-directed partner

Stacy Spikes, MoviePass — Rebooting a Cult Brand with Fantasy-Style Movie Gaming

support@kingscrowd.com (Stacy Spikes, Chris Lustrino) — Wed, 5 Nov 2025 00:07:58 +0000

MoviePass became a cultural phenomenon—then imploded under new ownership. Founder Stacy Spikes bought the brand out of bankruptcy for ~$140K, relaunched, and delivered profitable 2023 and 2024—now unveiling Mogul, a fantasy-sports-style game for movies that could 10x ARPU versus subscriptions. In this episode, Spikes recaps the original data behind movie subscriptions (111% lift in theater attendance; concessions tailwind), what broke during the $10-per-month era, and why MoviePass 2.0 pairs a sustainable, any-theater subscription with a knowledge-based gaming platform (salary cap, leaderboards, seasonal play). We cover unit-economics realities (why exhibitors can subsidize with F&B and MoviePass can’t), core user behavior and demographics, state-by-state fantasy rules, and the thesis that theatrical is still the #1 out-of-home entertainment globally. Investors get the scale path; founders get lessons on resurrecting a beloved brand—this time with the right business model.

Highlights include…

The rise, fall, and return: why the $10 unlimited era failed—and what’s different now
Data that started it all: subscription → +111% moviegoing; concessions economics
Why Mogul (fantasy/prediction game) = higher ARPU, stickier engagement
Subscriptions vs. exhibitors: pricing power, F&B offsets, and sustainable margins
Core user profile & frequency patterns; seasonality
State-by-state rules for knowledge-based contests (daily fantasy analog)
Building a bigger ecosystem: MoviePass + Mogul

Chapters
00:00 Intro & why MoviePass still matters
00:28 The cultural phenomenon & collapse
01:20 Buying the brand back (~$140K) and relaunch
03:22 Founding logic: subscription → more attendance
04:42 What went wrong with $10 unlimited
07:28 Fraud era, bankruptcy, and reset
08:01 Profitable 2023/2024; what changed
11:22 Unit economics vs. theater F&B
12:38 Pivot to Mogul (fantasy/prediction)
14:46 Knowledge-based contests, ARPU potential
17:33 Current sub business: usage, demos, seasonality
20:46 Growth plan & ecosystem vision
22:52 Why theatrical is still king
28:37 How to learn more & invest

Fran Maier, BabyQuip — The “Airbnb for Baby Gear” Goes Mainstream

support@kingscrowd.com (Fran Maier, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 16:43:51 +0000

BabyQuip helps families travel lighter by delivering clean, vetted baby gear—like cribs, car seats, and strollers—right to your hotel or vacation rental. CEO Fran Maier (co-founder of Match.com) shares how the company hit its first profitable quarter and keeps growing through strong word of mouth and a new Vrbo partnership that puts BabyQuip in front of more travelers. The team is also expanding beyond baby gear into beach, pet, and mobility equipment under the GoQuip brand to serve seniors and people with disabilities. We dig into how the marketplace works (trusted local providers, insurance, and safety standards), why partnerships are the biggest growth lever, and where BabyQuip is headed next—including selective international expansion and deeper integrations with travel platforms.

Chapters
00:00 Why BabyQuip (and why now)
01:00 Fran’s track record & revenue trajectory
02:19 Profitability & Q3 inflection
03:33 Vrbo partnership—scope & impact
04:55 Beyond baby: beach, pet & GoQuip mobility
05:55 Growth mix: organic/direct ≈ 68%
06:45 Marketplace unit economics (take rate, churn, AOV)
08:06 International & airport/car-seat opportunities
09:12 Provider network, insurance, safety moats
10:30 Capital plan: $3M to scale partnerships & GoQuip
11:40 Big-picture TAM and long-term scale targets
13:00 Closing & how to invest

Ivan Lo, Breath Diagnostics — A Breath Test for Early Lung Cancer

support@kingscrowd.com (Ivan Lo, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 23 Oct 2025 12:19:20 +0000

Early detection saves lives, but today’s tools are often invasive, slow, or used too late. In this episode, Breath Diagnostics CEO Ivan Lo explains how a non-invasive breath test can detect volatile organic compounds (VOCs) associated with disease—positioning breath as a first-line screen for early-stage lung cancer and potentially pneumonia and TB. We cover the science (why breath can capture near real-time biological change), sensitivity/specificity signals from 800+ patients, and a go-to-market/regulatory plan that prioritizes post-op pneumonia (shorter trials, no entrenched standard of care) before lung cancer screening. We also discuss platform economics (low-cost disposables, existing LC-MS infrastructure), trial scale and cost, and how breath could support ongoing monitoring after treatment. Investors get a clear view of timelines, risks, and upside; founders get lessons on platform positioning, capital efficiency, and sequencing indications.

Highlights include...

Why breath (VOCs) can surface disease signals minutes–hours after biological change

First-line screening thesis vs. liquid biopsy and CT workflows

Early data: ~94% sensitivity / 85% specificity across 800+ patients (lung cancer context)

Regulatory path: post-op pneumonia first (faster FDA route), lung cancer next

Unit economics: low-cost cartridge + existing LC-MS labs (hub-and-spoke)

Clinical design: trial scale, costs, and companion-diagnostic “cocktail” potential

Platform beyond oncology: pneumonia, TB, inflammation, RUO for pharma

Chapters
00:00 Intro & why early detection needs a rethink
00:47 What Breath Diagnostics does (the “breath bag”)
03:34 VOCs 101: why breath can be earlier than blood
06:41 First-line screen vs. confirmatory tests
08:19 Will this be ubiquitous at annual visits?
11:53 Commercialization path & funding realities
12:37 Pneumonia first: faster FDA route
14:09 Lung cancer timeline & business model
15:34 Hospital economics & pneumonia savings
18:24 Trial scale/costs; disposable chip economics
20:34 Team, funding strategy, and sequencing
22:08 Early data and a “false negative” biopsy case
24:12 TAM & eligibility (20M Americans qualify)
25:06 What success looks like (2–3 years)
27:00 Investor closing thoughts

Cathy Minter, wisdom.io — AI Fall Detection & Aging-in-Place Done Right

support@kingscrowd.com (Cathy Minter, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Most older adults want to age in place, but families and caregivers can’t be there 24/7. wisdom.io uses edge computing + radar + computer vision to detect falls and anomalies without wearables—keeping data inside the home and only sending alerts. CEO Cathy Minter shares:
• Market reality & unmet needs in home care
• Tech stack, privacy, and why edge > cloud for seniors
• B2B2C go-to-market (home-care agencies, hospital discharge, 55+ communities)
• Pricing, unit economics, and pilot accuracy targets
• Samsung partnership: Wisdom on the Go (outside-home safety & gait insights)
• Competition (Sensi.AI, SafelyYou) and empathy-led design

Chapters:
00:00 Intro & the aging-in-place gap
03:23 Founder story & market stats
05:45 Product overview (edge hub, sensors)
06:04 Privacy & on-device AI
08:33 Hardware/installation Q&A
10:08 Sensor fusion & smart-home vision
11:25 GTM & channels
14:02 Pricing model
17:14 Home-care market size
18:27 Pilot design & accuracy
20:00 Competitors & differentiation
23:10 Scale strategy & Samsung
26:42 Closing & investor notes

Citizens Coffee: Scaling an Australian-Style Café Brand Across Texas & Beyond

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we catch up with Justin Giuffrida, CEO and co-founder of Citizens Coffee, to hear how the company’s Australian-style café model is performing as it scales beyond New York into Texas. The update? Citizens is thriving. After record openings in Houston, the team has now launched Austin, which became the best-performing opening in company history—hitting profitability in just six weeks and trending toward Citizens’ most profitable locations to date.

Citizens runs a high-margin breakfast & coffee model, pairing chef-driven, fresh food with third-wave coffee, best-in-class hospitality, and local community partnerships. Their stores open at roughly $500K per unit—a fraction of the cost of many national chains—and achieve a 24-month payback period, with stores averaging 21% four-wall EBITDA. The company plans to scale to 40 locations in five years, targeting $120–$150 million in revenue, with CPG (retail) launching in parallel to expand the brand’s reach and potential exit pathways.

With the brand’s strongest performance now outside NYC—specifically in Austin and Houston—Citizens is executing a scalable entry into Tier 2 markets with lower cost structures and equal (or better) unit economics.

02:14 – What’s Brewing in 2025
Justin shares current momentum and milestones—record openings in Texas

03:36 – Proving Portability Beyond NYC
How Citizens performed in Houston and Austin vs. NYC; why Texas was the bet

07:40 – The Risk of Scaling Retail
Chris on the risk of new locations; Justin on build costs ($500K), efficiency, and payback (24 months)

10:26 – Local Marketing & “Local Legends”
Citizens’ launch playbook: grassroots, partnerships, and charity-based LRM

14:01 – ICW Announcement
Chris plugs Investment Crowdfunding Week (Sept 29–Oct 2)

14:46 – Differentiation vs. Starbucks
Australian café model: chef-driven food + third-wave coffee + hospitality & frequency

19:42 – Growth Plan: 40 Locations in 5 Years
Texas expansion strategy and the path from 3 openings/year to 10/year

22:31 – Managing Debt & Investor Protection
How Citizens balances debt and equity while remaining cash-flow positive

25:16 – Why CPG (Retail) Fits the Brand
CPG strategy to extend brand trust and boost exit optionality

28:19 – Localization & Shelf Strategy
Chris on go-to-market for CPG; Justin on sequencing markets with brand equity

29:50 – Projections & Exit Comps
$120–$150M revenue target with CPG; comps like Blue Bottle & La Colombe

31:55 – Final Message to Investors
Proof of concept in 3 major markets & the 5-year plan

Windlift: Airborne Wind Power and Tethered Flight Systems for Energy and Defense

support@kingscrowd.com (Rob Creighton, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we talk with Rob Creighton, founder and CEO of Windlift, a deep tech company developing airborne wind energy systems and tethered flight platforms that can both generate power and serve as elevated sensing platforms for defense and commercial applications.

Windlift’s core platform is a tethered winged UAV—a cross between a quadrotor and a high-lift airfoil—that can autonomously fly patterns to extract energy from wind, delivering power to the ground via tether. Their current small demonstrator (about 25 lbs) can supply 1–3 kW (enough for a household in windy regions), while planned systems around a 40-foot wingspan aim to produce around 75 kW—all container-portable for microgrid and remote deployments. With over $24 million in support from the U.S. Department of Defense, Windlift has built a capability that extends beyond energy: tethered, stable, high-altitude platforms for communications, radar, and maritime sensing (e.g., towed behind ships to detect piracy or drone threats at ranges of 40–50 miles).

Underlying their hardware is a software-first approach: Windlift develops its systems using autonomously directed synthetic evolution (AI-guided design optimization) and high-fidelity physics—allowing rapid iteration, mission-specific tailoring, and steep cost-down potential as systems mature.

Defense is the first go-to-market, where mobility, weight, and autonomy matter. But commercial energy applications, especially remote microgrids, islands, and areas with wind/solar complementarity, present significant medium-term opportunity. Looking ahead, Windlift believes its technology can reach cost-competitive or lower-cost wind power within 3–5 years—with the right capital and execution.

HEVO: The Wireless EV Charging Platform Powering the Next Wave of Mobility

support@kingscrowd.com (Jeremey McCool, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 4 Sep 2025 15:43:31 +0000

In this episode, we sit down with Jeremy McCool, founder and CEO of HEVO, a company building wireless charging systems for electric vehicles. Think of a garage-floor charging pad—pull in, align, and your car charges automatically. HEVO has been solving the physics, standards and automotive integration work for over a decade, and now stands at the front line of commercial adoption.

HEVO is underway with two major global automakers, including Stellantis (Jeep, Dodge, Fiat, Peugeot, and more), to integrate wireless charging into up to seven EV platforms beginning 2027–2028. This isn’t a small bolt-on—the company has achieved UL certification and alignment with SAE wireless charging standards, clearing essential hurdles for true automotive-grade integration.

Beyond the OEM opportunity, HEVO is partnering with Steer Tech to enable autonomous parking + wireless charging for fleet yards—a use case that eliminates manual charging attendants and enables round-the-clock operation. Wireless charging isn’t just convenient—it’s the missing piece for scaling autonomous fleets.

HEVO’s cost and efficiency discipline makes this more than a vision. The company’s target pricing for on-vehicle components aims to be competitive with plug-in equipment, while the 11 kW bidirectional home charger is priced at $1,200, enabling vehicle-to-home (V2H) power during outages. With grid-to-battery efficiency in the low-to-mid 90%, 85 kHz universality, and a 12-inch air gap tolerance, HEVO is designed for scale.

The most striking part: once an OEM launches, the curve goes from flat to 50,000+ units in year one—across multiple vehicle programs. HEVO expects to be profitable on hardware and software at volume from day one of scaling production.

How Groomit Is Scaling On-Demand Mobile Pet Grooming — With Quality and Control

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we speak with Groomit co-founders Sohel Kapadia and Lars Rissmann about building a mobile, on-demand pet grooming platform designed for convenience, quality, and scale. Unlike typical marketplace models (e.g., Rover/Wag), Groomit vets groomers, provides fully outfitted mobile vans, manages logistics/technology, and delivers a consistent standard of service—for both pet parents and groomers.

After bootstrapping for years, Groomit has achieved $7.4M in 2024 revenue (up from $5.8M in 2023), with over 150,000 pets groomed and an average rating of 4.8 stars. The company now operates in 17 states and 50+ cities, with a repeatable playbook for entering new markets and building recurring revenue, including auto-scheduling that now accounts for ~30% of bookings.

Groomit’s hybrid model—supporting independent groomers with vans, bookings, payments, and software—has unlocked earnings potential for groomers (often earning ~$117 per appointment) and a premium, convenient service for pet owners. The vans are third-party investor-owned, minimizing Groomit’s capex, and groomers operate as independent contractors who can keep vans at home for efficiency.

If you’re interested in how to scale a premium services marketplace with high operational complexity, tight quality control, and strong unit economics, this episode offers a clear blueprint.

How BackerKit Went from Crowdfunding Tool to Powering $26M Campaigns

support@kingscrowd.com (Maxwell Salzberg, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 21:34:03 +0000

In this episode, Maxwell Salzberg, co-founder and CEO of BackerKit, shares how his team built the infrastructure behind rewards crowdfunding—and why they’re now operating their own crowdfunding platform with a distinct focus on community, continuity, and creator success.

BackerKit started by solving the most painful and underappreciated part of rewards crowdfunding: the post-campaign chaos of fulfillment, logistics, and communication. Over the past 13+ years, they became the backbone for creators raising on Kickstarter and others—helping manage backers, collect shipping/taxes, handle upgrades, and more. Today, BackerKit has evolved into a full-stack crowdfunding platform—supporting from the first dollar raised to the last package shipped, and beyond.

They’ve powered major campaigns—including a $23M+ launch with author Brandon Sanderson, and their annual platform revenues exceed $20M. Now, with BackerKit Collab Funding, they’re building multi-creator event-style campaigns that drive bigger engagement, discoverability, and long-term fan relationships.

Cracking 401(k)s: Sphere’s Climate-Friendly Fund with CEO Alex Wright-Gladstein

support@kingscrowd.com (Alex Wright-Gladstein, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris speaks with Alex Wright-Gladstein, founder & CEO of Sphere, the company behind the Sphere 500 Climate Fund—a low-fee, index-like mutual fund for 401(k)s that excludes fossil fuel companies and is now available on Fidelity and Schwab. Alex explains how her team navigated years of audits, platform approvals, and AUM thresholds to unlock real adoption within the retirement ecosystem—and why crossing $100M AUM is the tipping point that could lead to billions in inflows from the largest corporate 401(k)s.

Highlights include...

Why most 401(k)s don't offer real climate-friendly funds
How Sphere built a low-fee (0.07% expense ratio) S&P 500-like fund that screens out fossil fuels
The 3-year effort to get approved by Fidelity and Schwab
Why $100M AUM unlocks access to the biggest 401(k) plans
How employee movements at Google, Apple, Microsoft create demand for these options
Sphere’s go-to-market via creative advocacy campaigns (150M+ views)
Business model: starting with low-fee scalability → expanding to higher-margin products
Alex’s track record (co-founded Ayar Labs, now $1B+ valuation)

2:00 – Alex’s background & founding Sphere
4:30 – What is the Sphere 500 Climate Fund?
6:45 – Why 401(k)s are hard: fees, lawsuits & mutual funds vs ETFs
9:40 – Getting onto Fidelity & Schwab: the 3-year process
12:10 – AUM milestones: Why $100M matters
14:50 – Building demand: Employee movements & advocacy campaigns
17:30 – Business model & future fund lineup
20:15 – Competitive moat & brand trust
23:00 – Market size & exit thoughts (IPO vs M&A)

Building the Next History Channel on YouTube—Yarnhub CEO David Webb

support@kingscrowd.com (David Webb, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 15:51:01 +0000

David Webb’s Yarnhub pulls 400 million annual views for cinematic WW2 stories—no ad spend required. On Inside Startup Investing he details how that captive audience now funds a historically accurate video-game, why the company’s CPMs beat integration ads, and the path to 3–5 billion monthly views across multiple channels. If MrBeast can sell burgers, Yarnhub can sell history. Listen in and judge whether this next-gen studio merits a spot in your alt-portfolio.

Accidental media empire. Webb left Intel, acquired “War History Online,” and pivoted from publishing to high-quality animated shorts on YouTube.

Huge organic reach. Yarnhub generates ~35 M YouTube views and ~150 K new subs per month—with minimal paid advertising.

Quality over clickbait. Films cost ~$40 K each, use game-engine animation, and weave “goose-bump” human stories rather than dry battle timelines.

Revenue today. ~US $1 M annual from YouTube ads; expected to scale to several million as channels expand.

The bigger play. Audience demand led Yarnhub to develop a WW2-themed game—with 40 K Steam wish-lists after just a few months.

Re-Programming Viruses to Fight Brain Tumors—Inside Siren Biotechnology

support@kingscrowd.com (Nicole Paulk, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 24 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0000

On this week’s Inside Startup Investing, Dr. Nicole Paulk—founder & CEO of Siren Biotechnology—details her AAV gene-therapy “FedEx truck” that can deliver anti-tumor cytokines directly to brain cancers. Early animal data show 86 % complete responses; the FDA has signaled a fast-track path for Siren’s first-in-human trial set for 2026. With analog comps like Keytruda earning $30 B a year, Siren’s upside—and impact—could be enormous.

Highlights include...

Why viruses? AAV viruses don’t cause disease in humans yet efficiently deliver genetic payloads; Siren re-engineers them to express anti-tumor cytokines.
Twin “firsts.” Siren pursues the first AAV-based cancer therapy and the first single virus platform scalable to hundreds of indications.
Animal data. >500 mouse models show 86 % complete responses; large-animal pig study indicates strong safety with real-world neurosurgical delivery.
Clinical plan. Combined Phase 1/2 trial in adults with recurrent high-grade gliomas targeted for 2026 with potential for rare-disease (orphan) fast-track.
Market context. Current SOC for brain tumors is largely ineffective; analogous immunotherapies like Keytruda generate ~$30 B annually.

Replacing Hydraulics: Rise Robotics’ Clean Tech Opportunity

support@kingscrowd.com (Hiten Sonpal) — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris speaks with Hiten Sonpal, CEO of Rise Robotics, a company developing an energy-efficient alternative to hydraulic systems. Using a patented belt-based actuator technology called Beltdraulic™, Rise delivers the same power as hydraulics — but with significantly more energy efficiency, lower weight, and no fluid leaks. Their tech also supports built-in sensing, enabling AI and autonomous operation out of the box.

Sonpal shares how Rise is approaching commercialization through a focused entry into the lift gate market, a $2 billion space where hydraulic failure and maintenance are common pain points. The Rise solution reduces vehicle downtime and increases driver productivity — offering an ROI that some pilot partners are already validating.

Building a DTC Hardware Giant From Cold Water

support@kingscrowd.com (Ryan Duey, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 10 Jul 2025 04:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino speaks with Ryan Duey, co-founder and co-CEO of Plunge, the cold therapy and sauna brand that has quietly scaled to $80M+ in annual sales with minimal outside funding.

Ryan breaks down how a garage-built idea during COVID turned into a high-growth wellness hardware business with over 40,000 customers, including a fast-growing B2B channel. Founders will appreciate his transparency about scaling manufacturing, solving shipping nightmares, and building technical moats through operational execution. If you’re in DTC, hardware, health & wellness, or considering community rounds, this is a must-listen.

Highlights include…

Founding story: From brick-and-mortar wellness to e-comm hardware (2:01)
Shark Tank ROI and national brand awareness (5:00)
Market sizing: Comparing cold plunge to hot tubs & sauna categories (6:33)
Expanding product lines to drive retention & cross-sell (8:55)
B2B growth: Cold plunges entering hotels, gyms & commercial spaces (9:00)
Solving hard problems: Damage-in-transit, demand planning, and support infrastructure (11:39, 14:45)
Bootstrapped to $80M+: Smart cash management, customer pre-orders, and debt usage (17:57)
Manufacturing capacity & scaling challenges (20:18)
Moat = execution: Why hard ops are the defensible layer (14:45, 22:17)
Acquisition potential: PE, wellness tech, or DTC conglomerates (23:35)

Founder-Market Fit in Action: From Asthma Patient to CEO

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 4 Jul 2025 03:54:57 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino interviews Sharon Samjitsingh, co-founder and CEO of Health Care Originals, a respiratory health startup using wearable technology and predictive AI to help asthma and COPD patients avoid flare-ups before they happen.

Sharon shares her personal journey as an asthma patient and how that experience — paired with her background managing $150M+ in innovation deployments — led her to build a platform now supported by independently validated clinical results, $5.8M in ARR contracts, and a waitlist of 12,000+ patients. Founders will learn how to productize deep tech, unlock B2B2C healthcare sales, and design for scale in a hardware-software business model.

Highlights include…

Founder story: From chemical engineer to patient-turned-healthtech CEO (1:50)
Product overview: Wearable + AI + coaching + environmental support (5:32)
Predicting asthma attacks 3 months in advance (6:57)
How to turn sensor data into behavior change, not just alerts (8:48)
Proving outcomes: Clinical results, validation, and third-party guarantees (11:08)

How Dr. Zwade Marshall Built a Fintech for His Peers

support@kingscrowd.com (Zwade Marshall, Chris Lustrino) — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:03:01 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino sits down with Dr. Zwade Marshall, founder and CEO of Doc2Doc Lending, to explore how a physician-turned-founder built a fintech company by solving a deeply personal problem — the financial barriers doctors face early in their careers. Zwade shares how Doc2Doc raised $21M almost exclusively from fellow doctors, built a flexible underwriting model to beat SoFi’s default rates, and scaled to over $100M in originations while staying lean and mission-driven. For any founder tackling industry-specific pain points or looking to raise capital from within a community, this conversation is a masterclass in focused execution and founder-market fit.

Highlights include...

Founder-market fit: Why Zwade understood this medical niche better than traditional lenders (4:18)

Outperforming SoFi: 2.23% default rates with a 600 FICO borrower base (12:05)

Revenue model breakdown: interest spread, servicing, referral, and origination fees (14:08)

Structuring capital efficiently: lending with $150M in debt capacity, not equity (15:33)

Strategic expansion to other healthcare professionals with high LTV (22:57)

From Lab to Industry: How Avadain is Commercializing Graphene

support@kingscrowd.com (brad larschan, chris lustrino) — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 04:00:00 +0000

Brad Larschan, CEO of Avadain, joins Chris Lustrino to share how his company is transforming one of the world’s most promising materials—graphene—into a commercial product ready to reshape advanced manufacturing. Brad unpacks the science behind graphene’s extraordinary properties, how Avadain’s licensing model is unlocking large-scale industrial use, and why their patented production method positions them at the forefront of a materials revolution.

Topics include…

Spinning out tech from research institutions
Scaling from lab to market
Strategic licensing as a business model
Raising capital while building long-term IP advantage

From Shared Kitchens to Scale: Building a Food Startup That Lasts

support@kingscrowd.com (Arianne Valle, Turner Hoff, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 12 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino sits down with Ariane Valle and Turner Hoff, the founders of Vegetable + Butcher, a handcrafted meal delivery company redefining what it means to scale a food brand with integrity. From navigating conflicting diets at home to building a customer-first experience grounded in transparency and nutrition, Ariane and Turner share the operational choices, hard lessons, and go-to-market strategies behind their growing business.

Sowing Innovation: How Hylio Is Revolutionizing Farming with Drones

support@kingscrowd.com (Arthur Erickson, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 3 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Tune in to this episode of Inside Startup Investing as we explore the innovative world of agricultural drones with Arthur Erickson, founder and CEO of Hylio. Discover how a fascination with drones turned into a business that's transforming agriculture through technology. Key highlights include:

Origins and Evolution: Journey through Hylio's transition from a small startup experimenting with drones to becoming a leader in agricultural drone technology.

Agricultural Impact: Understand how Hylio's drones are making farming more efficient and sustainable by optimizing the delivery of agricultural inputs.

Future Visions: Hear about Hylio's plans for expansion and how they continue to innovate within the agricultural sector.

Stormalong Cider: From Orchard Roots to a Flourishing Future

support@kingscrowd.com (Shannon Edgar, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Join us on this episode of Inside Startup Investing as we dive into the fascinating journey of Shannon Edgar, founder and CEO of Stormalong Cider. Discover how a spontaneous move led to the birth of a unique cider brand that respects tradition while innovating for today's market. Key highlights include:

Unexpected Beginnings: Learn how Shannon transitioned from the music industry to founding a cider company after moving to an orchard.

Crafting Unique Ciders: Explore Stormalong's commitment to using rare apple varieties and whole ingredients to create distinctive ciders.

Future Aspirations: Hear about Stormalong's plans for expansion and new product lines, including a non-alcoholic option.

Don't miss this insightful discussion on building a brand that's as authentic and storied as the cider it produces.

Transforming the Construction Industry with Hemp

support@kingscrowd.com (Mattie Mead, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we explore the innovative world of sustainable building materials with Mattie Mead, founder and CEO of Hempitecture. Discover how Hempitecture is harnessing the power of hemp to revolutionize the construction industry and combat carbon emissions.

Highlights include:

Sustainable Innovation: Learn how Hempitecture uses hemp to create eco-friendly building materials.
Challenges and Solutions: Delve into the technical challenges of creating consistent, high-quality hemp-based products and how Hempitecture addresses these issues.
Future of Construction: Discuss the potential for hemp in modern construction and its role in reducing the industry’s carbon footprint.

Planting the Future: PLNT Burger's Journey to Transform Fast Food

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Treloar, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris dives into the rapidly evolving world of vegan fast food with Chris Treloar, CEO of PLNT Burger.

Key highlights include:

Leadership Insights: Discover how Chris Treloar’s strategic leadership is steering PLNT Burger towards a sustainable future.
Innovative Partnerships: Learn about PLNT Burger’s unique collaboration with Whole Foods and how it fosters growth and accessibility.
Culinary Revolution: Explore how PLNT Burger is making vegan food appealing to not just vegans but everyone who loves great-tasting food.

Scoring Goals and Dreams: Carrick Rangers' Journey Through Football Investment

support@kingscrowd.com (Michael Smith, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 23:35:08 +0000

Join us on this episode of Inside Startup Investing as we explore the fascinating world of sports investment with Michael Smith, majority owner of Carrick Rangers Football Club. Learn about the club's rich history, strategic moves, and ambitious plans for the future, including their aim to enhance their academy and compete on European stages. Highlights include:

Historic Club with Modern Ambitions: Delve into the club's journey from its founding in 1939 to its current aspirations in the Irish Premiership and beyond.
Strategic Investments: Insight into the club’s financial strategies, including stadium improvements and building a global academy.
The Business of Football: Understand the financial mechanics of football, from European competitions to player transfers.

Revolutionizing Local Weather Forecasting with WeatherFlow-Tempest

support@kingscrowd.com (Buck Lyons, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 6 Feb 2025 21:56:44 +0000

Join us on this episode of Inside Startup Investing as we explore how WeatherFlow-Tempest, led by CEO Buck Lyons, is transforming local weather forecasting. Discover how their unique combination of hardware and software provides precise weather data right from your front lawn, enhancing the accuracy of local weather predictions. Highlights include:

Dual Approach: Insight into WeatherFlow-Tempest’s strategy as both a hardware provider and a data analytics powerhouse.
Robust Growth: Discussion on the company’s growth trajectory with over $12 million in annual sales and their expansive network of weather devices.
Future of Weather Data: The potential of localized weather data in an era of changing climate conditions and how it could redefine weather forecasting.

Transforming Land Surveying by Air: SmartDrone

support@kingscrowd.com (Rob Cammack, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 23 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Join us on this episode of Inside Startup Investing as we dive into the innovative world of drone technology with Rob Cammack, CEO of SmartDrone. Discover how SmartDrone is revolutionizing the land surveying industry by drastically reducing the time and manpower required to survey large areas.

Key highlights include:

Drone Revolution: A decade after the drone hype cycle, SmartDrone emerges as a leader in practical drone applications, transforming theoretical technologies into real-world solutions.
Efficiency in Land Surveying: Learn how SmartDrone leverages advanced drone technology to survey vast tracts of land in mere hours—a task that traditionally took months.
Experienced Leadership: With Rob's extensive experience and previous successful exits, SmartDrone is positioned for significant growth in the land surveyor market

Qnetic's Flywheel: A Giant Leap in Mechanical Energy Storage

support@kingscrowd.com (chris lustrino, michael pratt) — Sun, 12 Jan 2025 22:01:52 +0000

Tune in to this enlightening episode of Inside Startup Investing where we explore the future of energy storage with Michael Pratt, CEO of Qnetic. Discover how Qnetic is tackling the challenges of renewable energy integration with their innovative mechanical flywheel technology.

Highlights include…

Transition to Energy Storage (3:05)
Mechanical Flywheel Energy Storage (7:05)
Comparing Flywheel to Lithium-Ion Batteries (9:48)
Market Strategy and Clientele (14:30)
Business Model and Scaling Challenges (16:56)
Market Potential and Future Projections (23:13)

The Impact of AI on Healthcare Efficiency: A Deep Dive with Roy Malkin

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Roy Malkin) — Mon, 30 Dec 2024 00:56:30 +0000

In this episode, we dive into the transformative world of hospital supply management with Roy Malkin, CEO of Assured Med Supply (AMS). Discover how AMS is leveraging AI to streamline hospital procurement processes, ensuring that hospitals can efficiently manage supplies and avoid costly shortages.

Highlights include…

The AMS AI Solution: How AMSAI is optimizing hospital supply chains, acting as an AI co-pilot to navigate complex purchasing decisions. [00:13.23]
Addressing Hospital Pain Points: Tackling the challenges of managing vast SKU counts and navigating supply shortages, which can cost hospitals billions in procedural delays and inflated supply costs. [01:36.176]
Vendor Relationships and Integration: How AMS facilitates better supply chain decisions, providing hospitals with alternatives during critical shortages. [07:23.126]
Future Expansion and Impact: Plans for extending AMS's AI capabilities beyond hospital procurement to other sectors, potentially influencing government efficiency and saving lives during critical shortages. [28:05.932]

Frontline Tech: How Elemeno Health is Transforming Medical Training

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Arup Roy-Burman) — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris Lustrino talks to Dr. Arup Roy-Burman, founder of Elemeno Health. Discover how Elemeno Health tackles the urgent need for up-to-date training in healthcare settings with their innovative microlearning platform. Designed to provide immediate, actionable information, Elemeno Health aids healthcare professionals in making critical decisions swiftly and accurately. Dr. Roy-Burman shares his journey from an ICU physician to tech entrepreneur, emphasizing the impact of Elemeno on operational efficiency and patient care.

Highlights include…

The challenges of implementing new technologies in hospitals and how Elemeno overcomes these. (1:27)
Real-world impact: A case study from North Bay Health demonstrating Elemeno's effectiveness during emergency medical situations. [00:05:20.29]
The scalability of Elemeno's solution across different hospital departments. (6:44)
The strategic approach to expanding Elemeno's adoption within hospitals and its growing traction. (10:29)
The addition of a new CEO, Tim Coulter, to drive forward Elemeno’s mission and expand its market reach (18:41)
Future plans for Elemeno Health, including exploring new markets in pharma and clinical trials. (20:34)

Meat N' Bone: The Art of Meat Retailing

support@kingscrowd.com (chris lustrino, luis mata, gabriel lluardo) — Sun, 15 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we speak with Luis Mata and Gabriel Llaurado, the co-founders of Meat N' Bone, an innovative retailer and direct-to-consumer provider of high-end proteins, including a variety of meats and fish. Discover how Meat N' Bone is filling a critical market gap by offering an extensive selection of quality meats, ranging from ribeyes to Wagyu, appealing to serious home chefs and food lovers. Learn about their unique omnichannel approach that combines online convenience with physical store experiences, significantly lowering customer acquisition costs and fostering high customer retention.

Highlights include…

Concept and Unique Selling Proposition of Meat and Bone (3:53)
Growth and Business Model (6:08)
Expansion Plans and Market Strategy (9:25)
Competitive Advantage and Brand Building (13:26)
Consumer Engagement and Future Plans (20:01)
Sourcing Strategy and Quality Assurance (22:25)

House Calls Reimagined: Pivotal Health's Quest to Transform Urgent Care

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Mon, 9 Dec 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we dive deep into the innovative world of Pivotal Health with its CEO, Sal Braico. Pivotal Health is revolutionizing the urgent care industry by bringing high-quality medical services directly to patients' homes. With 13,000+ visits and rave reviews, Pivotal Health addresses the inefficiencies of traditional healthcare by eliminating the need for waiting rooms and reducing administrative burdens. Sal discusses the strategic shift towards providing services through employer partnerships, enhancing accessibility while maintaining affordability through a subscription-based model.

Highlights include...

Sal Breakco's Background and Pivotal Health's Mission (2:35)

Logistics and Demand Management (5:46)
Recruiting and Retaining Providers (7:13)
Market Expansion and Strategy (9:58)
Business Model and Pricing (12:16)
Sales Cycle and Employer Partnerships (20:10)
Exit Strategies and Investment Opportunity (25:20)

A Taste of Australia: Justin Giuffrida's Quest to Elevate U.S. Coffee Culture

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Justin Giuffrida) — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris speaks with Justin Giuffrida, the co-founder and CEO of Citizens Coffee. With over $27 million in lifetime sales, Citizens Coffee is not just a café but a burgeoning lifestyle brand. Justin discusses the uniqueness of Australian coffee culture, which he is transplanting into the U.S. market with an emphasis on quality and community. Their rapid expansion in New York and Texas, coupled with a strategic approach to new markets, showcases their potential within the booming U.S. coffee scene. Justin also explores the future of Citizens Coffee, including plans for international licensing and a new venture into consumer packaged goods (CPG).

Highlights include…

Justin’s background Citizens Coffee's Unique Selling Proposition (1:41)
The Growing Market for Specialty Coffee and Breakfast (3:08)
Citizens Coffee's Market Strategy and Expansion Plans (10:36)
Challenges and Competition in the Coffee and Breakfast Market (14:46)
Efficiency and Cost Advantages of Citizens Coffee (19:06)
Future Projections and Investment Opportunities (26:20)

How NetSpeek Is Solving Office A/V Challenges Using AI

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Erik DeGiorgi) — Mon, 4 Nov 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host Chris interviews Erik DeGiorgi, the CEO of NetSpeek, a company evolving audiovisual (A/V) management in the workplace. NetSpeek is addressing the common and frustrating interoperability issues in modern offices by making all AV devices communicate seamlessly. Erik, who has nearly two decades of experience in the Pro A/V industry, shares insights on the inception of NetSpeek and how their innovative platform uses AI to simplify A/V operations, essentially allowing devices to be controlled through natural language commands.

Highlights include…

Eric Digiorgi's Background and NetSpeek's Genesis (1:55)
Challenges and Solutions in the Pro A/V Space (3:23)
Market Opportunity and Scalability (6:25)
Sales Process and Implementation (12:33)
Feedback from Beta Clients and Initial Traction (14:53)
Pricing and Market Differentiation (19:40)

How to Invest in Sustainable Forestry and Offset Your Carbon Footprint

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Cathy Key) — Mon, 28 Oct 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris sits down with Dr. Cathy Key, the president and chief business officer of World Tree. Discover the unique and sustainable investment opportunities World Tree offers through the growth and harvest of the Empress tree. Learn about the environmental impact, the innovative profit-sharing model with farmers, and how these fast-growing trees can provide significant returns while offsetting carbon footprints. Dr. Key dives into the agricultural processes, the risks involved, and the promising future of this green investment. Whether you're an investor looking for eco-friendly opportunities or someone passionate about sustainability, this discussion sheds light on how you can contribute to a greener planet while aiming for a profitable return.

Highlights include…

World Tree's Origin and Mission (2:34)
Tree Planting and Farming Partnerships (5:38)
Harvest and Profit Sharing (8:30)
Care and Maintenance of Empress Trees (9:57)
Market Demand and Environmental Impact (15:19)
Investment Details and Returns (22:09)

Revolutionizing Personal Security with Our Bond

support@kingscrowd.com (Doron Kempel, Chris Lustrino) — Mon, 30 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, host Chris Lustrino speaks with Doron Kempel, founder and CEO of Our Bond, a company revolutionizing personal security. Our Bond provides a mobile security service that protects individuals rather than just physical spaces, offering real-time assistance and intervention in unsafe situations. Kempel shares his journey from founding companies sold to major corporations to creating Our Bond, driven by the mission to democratize personal security globally.

Highlights include…

Doron discusses his previous ventures and the inspiration behind Our Bond (1:56)
The unique security challenges individuals face when outside traditional safe spaces like homes or offices (4:55)
Categories of Personal Security Concerns (6:52)
Business Model (15:31)
Corporate Adoption and Cost Savings (28:23)
Investment and Future Plans (28:39)

Fan-Owned Media, Movie-Making and Catching up with Jeff Annison

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino) — Mon, 23 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, host Chris Lustrino welcomes back Jeff Annison, co-founder and President of Legion M, a pioneering fan-owned media company. Legion M leverages equity crowdfunding to unite a million fans in revolutionizing the media landscape. Annison discusses the company's journey, its significant milestones, and the future trajectory in democratizing media production.

Highlights include…

Legion M has raised approximately $20 million for the studio and $24 million including film investments. Over 50,000 investors have participated, making it a significant fan-owned entity. [5:05]
Shift from small investments to financing and producing their own films. [9:45]
Fans can invest directly in films and receive a portion of the royalties. Investors get returns before the company or even the talent involved. [10:30]
Upcoming major films: "The Man in the White Van" releasing in December; a true-crime thriller with Sean Astin and Ali Larter. "My Dead Friend Zoe" featuring Morgan Freeman and Ed Harris; won Audience Award at South by Southwest. [12:56]
Development of "Defiant: The Story of Robert Smalls," sourced from the Legion M community. Highlights the power of fan engagement in identifying compelling stories. [15:00]
Owning IP provides long-term revenue streams and monetization opportunities. The company is focusing on creating and owning content outright. [22:03]
Insight into the economics of production vs. distribution roles. Plans to engage in both to maximize revenue based on market conditions. [25:50]
The 50,000-strong investor base aids in marketing and amplifying film reach. Community acts as brand ambassadors, driving word-of-mouth promotion. [33:40]
Attracts top talent and industry partners due to the engaged fan base. Provides leverage in negotiations and unique marketing advantages. [38:35]

Continuous Care: How Future Cardia is Changing Heart Monitoring

support@kingscrowd.com (Jaeson Bang, Chris Lustrino) — Mon, 2 Sep 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, host Chris Lustrino is joined by Jaeson Bang, CEO of Future Cardia, to explore the groundbreaking developments in heart monitoring technology. Future Cardia is pioneering a minimally invasive, implantable device designed for the continuous monitoring of heart arrhythmia, which represents a significant leap forward in patient care and medical data accuracy.

Highlights include…

Innovative Heart Monitoring Solution by FutureCardia (0:00)
Jason's Background and Industry Experience (2:34)
Development and Scientific Aspects of FutureCardia (4:30)
Market Disruption and Product Differentiation (6:08)
Procedure and Monitoring Details (9:00)
Commercialization Strategy and Market Opportunity (13:41)
Competition and Market Size (16:34)
Insurance Coverage and Pricing Strategy (20:07)
Marketing and Future Plans (20:26)
Final Pitch and Investment Opportunity (25:09)

David Phillips: Transforming Timeless Tales into Modern Successes

support@kingscrowd.com (David Phillips, Chris Lustrino) — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino engages in a captivating conversation with David Phillips, CEO of Elf Labs. David shares the intriguing journey of how Elf Labs acquired the rights to a collection of beloved children’s book characters, transforming them into a massive intellectual property powerhouse capable of rivaling major franchises in the entertainment industry.

Highlights include…

Monetization Strategy and Valuation (0:37)
Value of the Characters and Monetization Opportunities (2:26)
Creative Team and Direct-to-Consumer Strategy (10:43)
Challenges and Future Growth (16:44)
Revenue Projections and Long-Term Vision (18:45)
Investment Opportunities and Community Involvement (22:21)

Digging Deep: EarthGrid's Revolution in Underground Infrastructure

support@kingscrowd.com (Troy Helming, Chris Lustrino) — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino interviews Troy Helming, CEO of EarthGrid. Troy discusses EarthGrid's innovative approach to infrastructure with its plasma tunnel boring technology designed to streamline and accelerate underground construction. This groundbreaking method not only promises to revolutionize how utilities, data centers, and energy companies manage their infrastructural needs but also enhances the resilience and efficiency of power transmission.

Highlights include…

EarthGrid's plasma tunnel boring technology uses electricity and air to vaporize and melt rock and soil, making it faster and cheaper than traditional mechanical drilling methods.
The company is working with utilities, solar and wind developers, data centers, and construction companies to bury power lines, create new transmission lines, and build tunnels for various infrastructure projects.
EarthGrid has already generated revenue and has a strong sales pipeline, with plans to go public in the future.
Upgrading the infrastructure in the United States is crucial for accelerating the clean power revolution and strengthening the nation's economy.

Innovating Iconic Brands with Ronny Shmoel of Circuit City

support@kingscrowd.com (Ronny Shmoel, Chris Lustrino) — Mon, 12 Aug 2024 01:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris interviews Ronny Shmoel, the CEO of Circuit City. Ronny shares his journey as a serial entrepreneur with significant success in e-commerce, leading to the revival of Circuit City. He delves into his strategic approach to transforming this iconic brand through innovative e-commerce solutions and leveraging its well-established name to venture into new business avenues like B2B sales and integrated digital platforms.

Highlights include…

Acquiring and reviving a well-known electronics brand, Circuit City. (4:41)
Leveraging Circuit City brand for B2B sales. (9:46)
Growing revenue in the retail industry through collaborations and embedded experiences. (14:50)
Leveraging a well-known brand in e-commerce through partnerships and digital marketing. (17:55)
Investing in Circuit City, turning it into a tech company with a successful track record and potential for future growth. (22:25)

AJNA BioSciences: Pioneering Plant-Based Pharmaceuticals

support@kingscrowd.com (Joel Stanley, Chris Lustrino) — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris is joined by Joel Stanley, CEO of AJNA BioSciences. Joel discusses his transition from co-founding Charlotte’s Web, a pioneer in the CBD industry, to establishing AJNA BioSciences. He shares the powerful backstory of how his work with CBD began, notably with Charlotte Figi, a young girl whose severe seizures were dramatically reduced using a CBD-rich extract. This episode gets into AJNA BioSciences’ mission to integrate plant-based medicines with modern pharmaceutical practices, emphasizing their current focus on developing botanical drugs for conditions like autism spectrum disorder and anxiety through rigorous FDA-approved clinical trials.

Highlights include…

Creating FDA-approved drugs from plant medicine for treating conditions like autism and anxiety.
The decline of plant medicine and its potential revival through modern technology and regulatory changes. (3:53)
Developing botanical drugs for autism and anxiety disorders, progress and challenges in clinical trials. (8:25)
Fundraising for Arjuna Biosciences, a biotech company developing cannabinoid-based drugs. (16:16)
Developing cannabis-based drugs for various diseases, including PTSD and sleep disorders. (20:44)

Strategic Acquisitions and Growth with Novastone's Adam Salmen

support@kingscrowd.com (Adam Salmen, Chris Lustrino) — Thu, 11 Jul 2024 15:06:32 +0000

In this episode, Adam Salmen, Managing Director at Novastone Capital Advisors, joins Chris. Adam discusses the intricacies of their search fund model, a high-performing private equity strategy rooted in acquiring stable, cash-flowing businesses. He elaborates on their methodical approach to identifying a target company, codenamed "Project Buffalo", leveraging debt financing, and institutionalizing operations to enhance growth and profitability. The conversation also dives into the broader implications and opportunities within the steel industry, highlighting the growth potential through strategic acquisitions and operational efficiencies.

Highlights include…

Acquiring a proven business with potential for growth.
Investing in a steel industry company, Project Buffalo, focusing on growth opportunities and market trends. (6:00)
Private equity investments with potential exit strategies. (14:14)

Learn about about Project Buffalo on Kingscrowd.

Shining a Light on Community Solar with Gary Skulnik

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Mon, 1 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris speaks with Gary Skulnik, founder and CEO of Neighborhood Sun, a company innovating in the community solar power sector. Neighborhood Sun provides an accessible solar power solution for individuals who cannot install solar panels due to various constraints. Gary shares his journey from being a climate activist to pioneering community solar projects that allow consumers to benefit from solar energy without the need for personal installations, highlighting the company's growth and the increasing popularity of community solar.

Highlights include…

Community solar, saving money, and disrupting the utility industry. (3:11)
Solar panel sales strategy, growth plans, and industry trends. (9:34)
Neighborhood Sun's growth, profitability, and expansion in renewable energy markets. (16:21)

The Future of Gaming and Content Creation with Overplay

support@kingscrowd.com (Caroline Strzalka, Chris Lustrino) — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris engages with Caroline Strzalka, Co-Founder and COO of Overplay, a company merging gaming, the creator economy, and AI innovation. Overplay's platform allows users to transform any video into an interactive mini-game, creating a new form of media engagement. Caroline, with her rich background from Sesame Street to investment banking (and a repeat founder), brings a unique perspective on media interaction, focusing on user-generated content and interactive experiences.

Highlights include…

Intro to AI-powered game platform Overplay, with examples of games and creative possibilities. (3:56)
Mobile gaming and gamification model. (9:54)
Monetizing interactive ads with potential for in-app purchases. (14:34)
Viral game creation and growth strategy (21:05)

TriAgenics: Innovating Dental Care with Leigh Colby

support@kingscrowd.com (Leigh Colby, Chris Lustrino) — Mon, 17 Jun 2024 00:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris talks with Leigh Colby, founder and CEO of TriAgenics, a company on a mission to eliminate the pain and complications associated with wisdom teeth. Leigh, a seasoned dentist and entrepreneur, dives into how his new technology can prevent wisdom teeth from ever developing in children, which could transform dental care practices. Leigh's commitment to changing the standard dental procedure by 2030 is underscored by his decision to step down for a go-to-market CEO to ensure the technology reaches its full potential.

Highlights include…

Microwave ablation for dental procedures. (5:49)
Market potential for new wisdom teeth treatment technology. (12:04)
Revolutionary dental implant technology with potential for IPO. (17:00)

Innovation in Auto-Injectors: Pirouette Medical's Journey with Conor Cullinane

support@kingscrowd.com (Chris Lustrino, Conor Cullinane) — Mon, 10 Jun 2024 01:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, host Chris Lustrino engages with Conor Cullinane, the Founder and CEO of Pirouette Medical. Conor shares his unique journey from aerospace engineering to launching a medical device startup aimed at revolutionizing the way medications like epinephrine and naloxone are administered. The discussion delves into the human-centered design philosophy behind Pirouette Medical's innovative, disc-shaped auto-injector, designed for simplicity and ease of use, reflecting Conor's personal experiences and professional expertise in biomedical engineering.

Highlights include…

Developing a better epinephrine auto-injector for portability and ease of use. (1:58)
Designing medical devices with a user-centric approach. (3:27)
Regulatory approval process for Pirouette Medical device combining drug products with a new drug application pathway, targeting 2026 approval (8:10)
Medical device patent protection. (13:53)
Medical device development, regulatory approval, and patient feedback. (18:05)

Sweater’s Approach to Inclusive Venture Funds

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 2 Jun 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this podcast episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino catches up with Jesse Randall, CEO of Sweater. Sweater is a platform that enables the launch of venture funds that are accessible to the general public without accreditation requirements. Jesse explains how the platform democratizes investment in private markets, traditionally reserved for the affluent, through professionally managed funds. The conversation goes into these funds' structure and regulatory landscape, providing insights into the future of accessible venture capital.
Highlights include…

Opening private markets to the general public through professionally managed funds. (0:04)
Interval funds, their structure, and how they differ from traditional venture funds. (4:40)
How interval funds value private assets and handle exit events. (9:40)
Scaling a venture capital platform for the general public. (14:41)
Enabling venture funds to raise capital from retail investors through a platform. (19:06)
Investing in alternatives, including sweater's role in enabling access. (24:11)

Annette Azan’s Mission to Redefine Women's Intimate Wear

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 26 May 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, host Chris Lustrino engages with Annette Azan, the founder and CEO of Nuudii System, a company pioneering the "boobwear" category that offers an alternative to traditional bras and bralettes. Annette discusses her journey from the fashion industry to entrepreneurship, driven by her need for a comfortable yet supportive option under a wedding dress. She gets into how Nuudii System is designed to embrace the natural shape without reshaping, promoting body positivity and versatility in wear.
Highlights include…

Nuudii’s innovative bra-less design, adoption, and growth. (3:38)
Azan talks about the brand’s focus on selling shapewear for women, with insights on their business model, marketing strategies, (8:17)
Brick and mortar vs vending machine, on-the-go D2C strategy (10:24)
Manufacturing for a lingerie brand. (12:29)
Growth strategies for a lingerie brand with a focus on sustainability and profitability. (17:31)

Diversifying Real Estate: Dutch Mendenhall's Investment Strategies

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Mon, 13 May 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This episode into a fascinating discussion with Dutch Mendenhall, CEO of RAD Diversified, Co-Founder of RADD Companies, and author of "Money Shackles." Dutch shares his journey from a baseball coach to a real estate mogul, emphasizing the strategic acquisition of diverse real estate properties from homes to golf courses and farmlands. He elaborates on RAD Diversified's mission to democratize real estate investment, allowing everyday investors to participate in diversified real estate portfolios through innovative financial platforms.

Luca Zambello on Transforming Short-Term Rentals with AI

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

This week, Chris talks with Luca Zambello, founder and CEO of Jurny, a pioneering tech company augmenting the short-term rental and hospitality industry with AI automations. Born from Luca’s early forays into luxury home rentals, Jurny evolved from a property management firm to a sophisticated software provider, addressing the industry’s scalability challenges through innovative technology. Luca dives into Jurny’s development, focusing on its automation capabilities and AI-driven solutions that streamline operations and enhance guest experiences across dispersed rental properties.
Highlights include…

Automating hospitality industry operations, including property management and communication with guests. (4:33)
AI's potential to automate back-office tasks for short-term rental companies, with a focus on specialized AI agents for (8:44)
AI-powered software for property management, growth opportunities, and monetization strategies. (12:45)

Infinity Fuel Cell: Powering Space and Beyond with William Smith

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 4 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Chris dives into the innovative world of Infinity Fuel Cell with founder and CEO William Smith. His company, rooted in aerospace and underwater fuel cell technology, has advanced the use of hydrogen fuel cells for various applications, including space and subsea missions. Smith discusses the company's journey from high-stakes government contracts to potential commercial use, highlighting their success in generating clean, efficient electricity and their transition towards green hydrogen systems.
Highlights include…

Hydrogen fuel cell technology for space and transportation applications. (6:14)
Green hydrogen generation and decarbonization. (9:52)
Funding, growth, and technology for Infinity. (14:43)
Space technology development and commercialization. (18:59)

Making Every Car Autonomous: Epilog’s Bold Vision

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Inside Startup Investing presents a deep dive into Epilog, a company revolutionizing the autonomous vehicle industry. CEO Michael Mojaver, with his extensive background in vision and physics, has created a device, SideCar, that enables regular cars to become autonomous. This episode covers the intriguing possibilities of transforming any car into a self-driving vehicle for $1,000, vastly more accessible than current market options. Michael details Epilog's journey from an intensive R&D phase to now focusing on commercialization, highlighting the company's potential rapid growth in the AI-powered automotive space.
Highlights include…

AI-powered vision technology for autonomous driving. (1:33)
Advanced driver assistance systems in cars. (10:26)
Autonomous driving technology and market potential. (14:59)

Choose Your Horizon: At-Home Psychedelic Treatments with Mark Holland

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 14 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Chris speaks with Mark Holland, founder and CEO of Choose Your Horizon, a mental wellness company that offers at-home psychedelic therapy. Mark shares how the therapy works, using ketamine in controlled, low doses to aid in treating conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. The episode illuminates how this therapy creates a dissociative experience, enabling patients to gain new perspectives on their mental health issues. Holland highlights the company’s growth trajectory, including its plan to expand to more states and possibly include more psychedelic compounds in treatment.
Highlights include…

Mental wellness company using psychedelic therapy. (0:03)
Ketamine therapy for mental health treatment. (1:56)
Ketamine-assisted therapy for mental health treatment. (5:50)
Psychedelic therapy for mental health. (12:29)
Scaling a mental healthcare business with a focus on psychedelic treatments. (17:57)

Investing in a Greener Future with Arthur Pierse of WeClimate

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 7 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Chris talks with Arthur Pierse, the founder of WeClimate, a groundbreaking climate equity crowdfunding platform. Arthur shares his vision of making climate tech investments accessible to a broader audience beyond the traditional realm of venture capitalists and high-net-worth individuals. He delves into the expansive scope of climate technology, touching upon various sectors, from renewable energy to electric vehicles, and the challenges and opportunities within. The conversation also covers the significant role of government incentives in advancing green technologies and Arthur's strategic approach to growing WeClimate.
Highlights include…

Climate tech investing and its growth potential. (1:33)
The adoption of electric vehicles and the challenges faced. (5:15)
Renewable energy, government incentives, and consumer behavior. (10:07)
The state of investing in climate tech companies. (16:14)
Investing in climate tech and the role of venture capital. (20:50)

Navigating Venture Capital: Insights from Hustle Fund's Haley Bryant

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 3 Mar 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris engages in an enlightening conversation with Haley Bryant, a pre-seed investor at Hustle Fund. As a venture capital fund focused on “hilariously” early startups, Hustle Fund is carving a path in the industry by democratizing venture capital through their Angel Squad program and seeking out exceptional founders beyond the Silicon Valley bubble. This episode dives deep into the intricacies of angel investing, explores the evolving landscape of startup funding across different regions, and discusses the critical shift towards a more data-driven venture capital approach.
Highlights include…

Democratizing access to venture capital. (2:04)
Improving diversity in venture capital and angel investing. (8:49)
Venture capital, geographic dispersion, and remote work. (12:27)
AI, data, and company growth strategies. (18:16)
Comparing angel investing, secondary markets, and private capital markets. (24:40)

Citizen Portal: AI's Potential Impact on Transparent Governance

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode Chris chats with Paul Allen, a serial entrepreneur best known for founding Ancestry.com. We learn about Allen's latest venture, Citizen Portal, an AI-driven platform designed to democratize government data access and enhance governance transparency. The discussion traverses Allen's entrepreneurial journey, the transformative potential of AI in politics, and the challenges and achievements in building a platform that empowers citizens with accurate government information.
Highlights include…

Creating an informed citizenry through AI-powered transcript analysis. (2:30)
Using AI to improve government transparency and engagement. (6:28)
Improving citizen engagement with government. (13:15)
How to inform voters in elections. (18:43)

Sebastian Duque's Playbook: Building the Uber of Soccer with Plei

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Chris catches up with Sebastian Duque, the co-founder and CEO of Plei. Known as the "Uber of soccer," Plei is an app that's rapidly gaining traction, currently used in 16 US cities. With a mission to make soccer accessible and convenient, Plei has been a game-changer in connecting players and facilitating matches, with over 100,000 games played. In this episode, Sebastian shares his journey, from the early challenges to significant milestones, and provides an insightful look into how technology is transforming the world’s most popular sport.

Highlights include…

Creating a platform for on-demand pickup sports games. (5:47)
Plei’s platform growth and user experience. (10:27)
Growth strategy and sourcing facilities for a sports platform. (15:19)
Growing a sports platform with a focus on soccer as the sport trends positively in the US. (20:05)

Soccer, Strategy, and Success with OCSC’s Dan Rutstein

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 11 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Chris sits down with Dan Rutstein, President of Orange County Soccer Club (OCSC). With his diverse background spanning journalism, diplomacy, and technology, Rutstein brings a unique perspective to leading a soccer club. He discusses the club's journey in the United Soccer League (USL), its strategies for player development, and its success in fostering a strong, community-oriented fan base. The conversation also covers the club's approach to navigating the complexities of soccer in the U.S., including TV deals and the potential for growth in the sport.

Highlights include…

Soccer team management and growth opportunities in USL. (2:20)
US soccer league structure and TV deal with CBS. (7:44)
USL soccer league's financial model and player development. (12:15)
Building a sustainable business model for OCSC. (17:10)
Sourcing and developing young soccer talent. (21:35)
Growing US soccer and investing in a local team. (25:16)

Decoding Crowdcube's Success with Matt Cooper

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 4 Feb 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris catches up with Crowdcube Co-CEO Matt Cooper. Celebrating over a decade of innovation, Crowdcube is a pioneer in online capital raising, transforming the startup investment landscape in the UK and globally. With over $2 billion raised for startups and more than $100 million returned to investors, their impact is undeniable. This conversation digs into the challenges and triumphs of building the platform Crowdcube, the evolution of investor engagement, and the future of digital private markets. Key highlights include Crowdcube's groundbreaking approach to investor acquisition, their strategy in winning over traditional financial institutions, and insights into the evolving landscape of private market investments.

Highlights include…

Challenges and successes of pioneering equity crowdfunding platform. (2:12)
Sustainable growth and investor acquisition strategies in the fintech industry. (6:07)
Industry sentiment, secondary markets, and founder-led liquidity opportunities. (9:34)
Building trust in private company fundraising and sourcing strategies in the EU. (15:55)
European investment platform Crowdcube's successes and complexities. (20:44)

Bode Miller and Andy Wirth: Blending Olympic Legacy with Industry Innovation at Peak Ski

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 28 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, we dive deep into the world of skiing innovation with the co-founders of Peak Ski Company, currently raising on Republic. Chris hosts Bode Miller, a legend in the skiing world with a storied Olympic medal-winning career, and Andy Wirth, a distinguished figure in the ski industry renowned for his significant contributions, including the creation of the popular Ikon Pass. Together, they discuss their new venture, Peak Ski, where they're not only challenging traditional ski manufacturing norms but also introducing cutting-edge technology and design to revolutionize the skiing experience.

Highlights include…

Starting a ski brand with Olympian Bode Miller. (2:19)
Reinventing ski manufacturing process. (8:12)
Innovative ski manufacturing and creating a new ski design. (12:43)
Marketing and European expansion. (17:04)
Expanding skiing accessibility through new technologies and partnerships. (24:12)
Entrepreneurship, innovation, and overcoming obstacles in the ski industry. (29:36)

Becoming the Trader Joe’s of electronics with Spencer Martin

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 21 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we interview Spencer Martin, CEO of Sonic Power. Chris and Spencer walk through his journey in the consumer electronics industry. With extensive experience from working in Chinese manufacturing to involvement in Silicon Valley startups, Spencer shares the insights he used to create Sonic Power. Spencer dives into his brand's business model to stand out in the electronics market through a private label strategy akin to Costco's Kirkland and Trader Joe's, offering customers high-quality, cost-effective electronic products.
Private label products and their quality
Starting a private label business and saving money on electronic goods. (3:34)
Inventory management and expansion strategies for a retail business. (7:58)
Business strategy, diversification, and beating the algorithm. (14:12)
Entrepreneurship, product development, and marketing strategies. (19:03)

From SkyMall to Sustainable Homes with Bob Worsley

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, we get into housing with ZenniHome's founder and CEO, Bob Worsley. A retired Republican State Senator and serial entrepreneur, Bob's career journey is as intriguing as it is inspiring. From establishing SkyMall to venturing into real estate and energy, Bob's latest endeavor, ZenniHome, stands at the forefront of the crop of startups providing housing solutions. These modern, steel-framed micro homes are not just a leap in sustainable living but are also impacting the housing landscape with their unique design, adaptability, and smart technology.

Highlights include…

Entrepreneurship, politics, and business success. (1:55)
Innovative home building using advanced manufacturing techniques. (7:01)
Affordable housing solutions using modular construction. (10:34)
Scaling tiny home production for B2C market. (15:18)
Affordable housing solutions with a focus on innovation and scalability. (19:50)

Faith and Finance: EquityVest’s Mission with Tom Bassford

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 5 Jan 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris engages with Tom Bassford, the founder and CEO of EquityVest. EquityVest, a burgeoning Reg CF platform, sets itself apart by focusing on faith-driven investments. The platform aims to connect faith-driven founders and investors to support innovations that advance the world positively. The episode delves into the nuances of faith-aligned investing, emphasizing that it's not confined to regular churchgoers but rather to anyone inclined towards value-driven investments. The discussion also touches on EquityVest's unique approach to addressing societal issues and supporting marginalized communities.

Highlights include…

Faith-based investing and creating a platform for startups. (1:39)
Faith-driven investing and social impact projects. (6:09)
Investment in and addressing marginalized communities. (10:55)
Democratizing capital for marginalized entrepreneurs. (15:33)
Equity crowdfunding platform for retail investors. (19:48)

A Step Ahead in Children's Footwear with Mike Gugat

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 31 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In the latest episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Mike Gugat, the co-founder and CEO of jbrds. This engaging episode reveals jbrds’ strides in the children's footwear market. With Mike's extensive background in the sporting goods industry, he shares the compelling story behind Jaybirds' inception and its mission to create anatomically correct, functional footwear for kids. Mike gets into the nuances of designing shoes that support the natural development of a child's foot, mirroring the barefoot experience. The discussion also touches on product development challenges, customer insights, and strategic marketing, showcasing jbrds’ dedication to promoting healthy foot development in children and their careful approach to scaling in a competitive market.

Highlights include…

Creating a better shoe for kids' development. (1:52)
Developing a new shoe brand for children focusing on comfort and performance. (6:52)
Growth strategy and product development for children. (11:56)
Marketing strategies for a footwear brand targeting parents. (16:23)
Baby shoe startup's growth potential and unit economics. (21:22)

Sustainable, Regenerative Farming with John Kempf

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 17 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris engages with John Kempf, the founder of Advancing Eco Agriculture. The discussion centers on the company's innovative approach to agriculture, emphasizing sustainable farming techniques and the enhancement of plant health. Kempf, with his unique background, brings valuable insights into the agricultural sector's evolution towards more environmentally friendly and efficient practices.

Highlights include…

Sustainable farming techniques (0:04)
Plant immune systems and sustainable agriculture. (2:08)
Reducing pesticide use in agriculture through AEA’s holistic approach. (5:13)
Plant nutrition and soil health. (10:58)
AEA’s longevity (15 years) and potential exit strategies. (17:24)
Using AI to improve agriculture and farming practices. (22:55)
Amish values and business growth with John Kempf. (27:46)

Custom Van Manufacturing: P.J. Tezza's Journey with ModVans

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 10 Dec 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this Inside Startup Investing episode, host Chris Lustrino welcomes P.J. Tezza, founder of ModVans. Tezza shares insights into his transition from a software entrepreneur to revolutionizing the van manufacturing industry with ModVans. The conversation explores the unique challenges and triumphs of developing versatile, family-friendly campervans, offering a fresh perspective on innovation in the automotive sector.

Highlights include…

Unique design features of ModVans that cater to adventure seekers and families. (2:29)
Discussion on the target market and the diverse customer base for ModVans. (6:58)
Growth strategies, pricing models, and expanding production capacity. (9:06)
Innovative direct-to-consumer sales approach and online customer engagement. (12:43)
Vehicle purchasing preferences and showroom alternatives. (13:05)
Future plans for ModVans and enhancing investor relations. (18:04)
Fundraising for a hardware business with venture capital and crowdfunding. (20:38)

Innovating Children's Tech: Dane Witbeck of Pinwheel

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 16 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, host Chris Lustrino is joined by Dane Witbeck, co-founder & CEO of Pinwheel. Witbeck delves into the unique mission of Pinwheel, focusing on their innovative approach to children's technology. The discussion touches on the challenges and triumphs of navigating the tech industry, offering a unique perspective on entrepreneurship and startup growth.

Highlights include…

Creating a smartphone for kids with parental controls. (2:39)
Phone usage and app management for kids. (8:45)
Growing a direct-to-consumer brand for smartphones. (11:21)
DTC growth and incumbent disruption in the tech industry. (14:50)
Privacy and addiction in the tech industry. (17:24)
Tech company's product development and market opportunity. (22:42)

Revolutionizing Franchise Investments: Kenny Rose on FranShares

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sun, 12 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris chats with Kenny Rose, the founder and CEO of FranShares. Kenny illuminates the concept behind FranShares, a platform revolutionizing the franchise investment landscape. Through FranShares, individuals can invest in franchises with a starting amount as low as $500, making franchise ownership more accessible and diversified. Kenny explains the unique investment structure, the focus on community and inclusivity, and the strategic approach to overcoming the challenges faced in traditional franchise models.

Highlights include…

Investing in franchises and their differences from startups. (3:18)
Selecting and supporting franchisees with a focus on operators. (8:46)
Investing in franchises as a win-win structure. (14:02)
Crowdfunding for franchise investments. (16:47)
Franchise investing and industry trends. (21:09)

Powering the Future with Renewable Inergy

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 2 Nov 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris sits down with Sean Luangrath, the CEO of Inergy, to discuss the company's mission, products, and growth trajectory. Sean dives deep into the renewable energy market, explaining how Inergy is positioning itself to lead the pack with its innovative solar generator systems.

Highlights include…

Sean’s background as a refugee background and developing his mission as a founder. (2:30)
Affordable solar energy systems for homes. (3:38)
Portable solar generators for emergency preparedness and home use. (8:01)
Sean highlights the product's versatility, from powering a campsite to serving as a backup during power outages at home. (10:20)
Solar energy solutions for off-grid communities, including early support from “preppers.” (13:52)
Energy storage solutions for homes and businesses. (19:37)

Battery Safety Revolution: A Deep Dive with Soteria's CEO, Brian Morin

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris Lustrino sits down with Brian Morin, the founder and CEO of Soteria Battery Innovation Group. Their discussion delves deep into the realm of battery safety, intellectual property, and the broader industry landscape.

Highlights include…

Battery safety and fires in various devices. (0:00)
Improving battery safety through innovative technology. (3:46)
Safe battery technology and licensing model. (7:43)
Battery technology and business model. (14:32)
Product market fit, intellectual property, and commercial success in the battery industry. (18:51)

Redefining Motor Tech: A Deep Dive with LiquidPiston's Alec Shkolnik

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Chris Lustrino engages in a candid conversation with Alec Shkolnik, President
and CEO of LiquidPiston. Shkolnik provides an overview of LiquidPiston's rotary engine design, explaining its differentiators and potential areas of application. The two also touch upon the broader challenges in the engine industry and how LiquidPiston is positioning itself in this landscape.

Highlights include…

Efficient engine technology for various applications. (5:17)
Engine technology for drones and military vehicles. (11:11)
Licensing and profitability in the engine industry. (15:41)
Commercializing innovative technology in the automotive and military industries. (19:38)
Innovative engine technology and its potential impact on the automotive industry. (25:01)

David Shapiro on Pioneering Private Market Access

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Chris meets David Shapiro, the CEO of OPEN. Together, they dive into the venture capital world, exploring OPEN's unique positioning and value proposition in the investment landscape. David shares insights into OPEN's mission, its differentiated approach to investing, and the transformative impact it aims to create in the startup ecosystem.

Highlights include…

David Shapiro provides an overview of OPEN's unique approach and philosophy in the venture capital space (approx. 2:00).
Private market investing with a focus on liquidity. (6:05)
Investing in private companies through a diversified basket. (12:13)
Investing in late-stage venture markets. (15:03)
Investing in private companies through OPEN. (21:43)

In these communications, references to “OPEN,” “OpenVC,” “us,” “our” and the “Company” refer collectively to OpenVC, Inc. and its subsidiaries and/or affiliates. This communication may contain forward-looking statements including, but are not limited to, discussions related to OPEN’s expectations regarding the performance of its business, specific companies, the market broadly and other non-historical statements. These forward-looking statements are based on OPEN’s beliefs, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, us. Although OPEN believes that the expectations reflected in this communication are reasonable, we can give no assurance that these expectations will prove to have been correct. These statements are subject to certain risks, uncertainties and assumptions, including risks relating to inflation, market conditions and interest rate fluctuations. We undertake no obligation to publicly update or review any statements, whether as a result of new information, future developments or otherwise, except as required by applicable law. This communication is not an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any interest in an OPEN fund or operating company. This communication is not intended to provide, and should not be relied upon for accounting, legal or tax advice or investment recommendations. To learn more, please visit www.openvc.com.

Edreece Arghandiwal on Building Oakland Roots

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 12 Oct 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino talks with Oakland Roots co-founder and CMO, Edreece Arghandiwal. They dig into the world of soccer, discussing the emergence of Oakland Roots, its strategies in player development, revenue generation, and the influence of community and celebrities on the club's trajectory.
Highlights include…

Importance of player development in the US (14:27)
The potential of the USL championship as a platform for young talent to shine and transition to European teams. (14:50)
The primary revenue streams for Oakland Roots (16:31)
Plans for the club's new 10,000-seat stadium. (18:20)
The conception and evolution of the Oakland Soul women's team, aiming to reach the USL by 2025. (20:33)
The array of celebrity investors and influencers involved with Oakland Roots, including Marshawn Lynch and Jeezy, emphasizes the Oakland connection. (23:03)
The success of the community investment round, emphasizing inclusivity and enabling everyone to own a piece of the club. (25:05)

Sports Betting Made Intelligent with Moneyline Sports Michael Friedman

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In the episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino hosts Michael Friedman, CEO of Moneyline Sports, exploring the innovations and intricacies of sports betting. Michael shares how Moneyline Sports is reshaping the sports betting landscape, serving as a beacon for both novices and experienced bettors. Chris and Michael dive into the unique offerings, challenges, milestones, and future aspirations of Moneyline Sports in enhancing the sports betting experience, illuminating the company’s commitment to innovation and standing out in a crowded market.

Highlights include…

Moneyline Sports is a sports betting platform with AI-powered predictive analytics. (2:25)
Its mission educating amateurs in sports betting (5:00).
Business model and growth strategies (8:47)
Challenges of the sports betting sector and the lack of user loyalty(15:00).
Sports betting industry growth and investment opportunities. (22:37)

Ep. 80 - Andrei Klochko

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Inside Startup Investing podcast, Chris Lustrino is joined by Andrei Klochko, CEO of Airthium. They dive deep into clean heat pump technology, discussing Airthium's groundbreaking contributions to the clean tech sector. With a strong emphasis on climate technology, Andrei, a trained physicist, provides insights into the complex yet fascinating world of Airthium's tech innovations and their vast market opportunities.

Highlights include…
Andrei Klochko’s background as a physicist and his academic journey at Ecole Polytechnique (0:50).
A deeper dive into Airthium's technology and its significance in the clean tech world (based on the flow, approx. 2:00).
Using heat pumps for industrial processes. (9:56)
Using heat pumps in factories for energy efficiency and cost savings. (14:44)
Funding, technology, and the vision going forward. (18:38)
Sustainable energy solutions and investment opportunities. (27:18)

Ep. 79 - Chris Lindsay

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 14 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In the latest Inside Startup Investing podcast episode, Chris Lustrino interviews Chris Lindsay, CEO of Manta Biofuel. Chris Lindsay discusses Manta Biofuel's journey from its early days as a biofuels company to its current focus on water remediation. With a blend of innovative technology and practical applications, Manta Biofuel is working towards addressing critical water pollution issues and exploring sustainable energy solutions.

Highlights include…
Origins of Manta Biofuel as a biofuels company (1:12).
Background of Manta Biofuel's founder Ryan Powell and the company's foundational technology (2:55).
Pivoting into water remediation. (3:42)
The potential of their magnetic separation technology to address water pollution (4:40).
Is there a world where biofuels become the fuel of the future? (8:41)
Who are the markets they are targeting? (14:49)

Ep. 78 - Fran Maier

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 7 Sep 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this Inside Startup Investing podcast episode, Chris Lustrino chats with Fran Maier, the co-founder and CEO of BabyQuip. Fran sheds light on how BabyQuip, as a leading baby gear rental service, has become a game-changer for traveling families both nationally and internationally. As a new father, Chris resonates with the need for such a service, making the conversation both personal and insightful. Fran discusses the inspiration behind BabyQuip, their challenges, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, and their commitment to making travel more convenient for parents.

Highlights include…
What makes BabyQuip the leading US national and international baby gear rental service (0:46).
Vision behind BabyQuip and its value proposition for traveling families (2:00).
How BabyQuip has weathered challenges, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic (10:00).
The evolution of BabyQuip's services and its future plans (18:20)

Ep. 77 - Katrina Spade

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0000

On the Inside Startup Investing podcast, Chris Lustrino speaks with Katrina Spade, Founder and CEO of Recompose. Katrina offers a fresh perspective on the funeral industry by introducing a sustainable and environment-friendly alternative to traditional death care: human composting. With a unique blend of personal curiosity and environmental responsibility, Katrina discusses the journey of founding Recompose and its mission to transform the way we perceive and handle death, turning it into a regenerative process for the Earth.

Highlights include…
Katrina's personal journey: Her curiosity about post-death options during her architecture graduate studies and her dissatisfaction with traditional methods (1:18).
Founding story (4:11)
The business model (18:20).
Walk through of the fragmented funeral industry (14:37).
The burial processes and the value of offering a third, eco-friendly option (21:13).
The comforting idea of folding the human body back into the ecosystem (23:23).
The personal side of being in the funeral industry (26:13

Ep. 76 - Alli Schaper

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 17 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Chris Lustrino is joined by Alli Schaper, the co-founder, and CEO of Supermush. They discuss Alli's personal journey and her deep connection with functional and psychedelic mushrooms. Alli shares how these experiences inspired her to start Supermush; a company focused on making mushroom-based products more accessible to the public. Despite being in an emerging and competitive market, Supermush has rapidly gained significant traction. Alli provides insights into the company’s strategy, operations, challenges, and plans.

Highlights include…
Alli shares her personal experiences with mushrooms and how they changed her life (0:50).
The genesis of Supermush and the company’s mission (10:30).
The traction Supermush has gained in a short amount of time (18:20).
Alli dives into the operational challenges and strategies for a mushroom-based company (27:45).
The competitive landscape and Supermush’s differentiation (35:00).
Discussion on the future plans and vision for Supermush (43:10).

Ep. 75 - Courtney Boyd Myers

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 3 Aug 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Inside Startup Investing hosts Courtney Boyd Myers, the founder and CEO of AKUA, a company committed to transforming ocean farming into a mainstream source of food and offering consumers sustainable, plant-based options. Courtney shares the story of AKUA's origins, the challenges they've faced, their business model, and future goals.

Highlights include…
The discussion about the benefits of kelp as a superfood, the process of turning it into a delicious product, and AKUA's best-selling Kelp Burger. (02:30)
She delves into AKUA's primary marketing channels and the effectiveness of Instagram for engagement and Facebook for customer acquisition. (04:12)
Courtney addresses the supply chain costs related to growing kelp and the current oversupply in the kelp farming industry. (19:47)
She highlights AKUA's climate goals and the potential of being an acquisition target for big CPG brands looking to fulfill their climate commitments. (21:23)
Courtney shares her personal challenge of stepping into operations and finance roles, emphasizing the necessity of wearing many hats as a founder. (22:46)

Ep. 74 - Anthony Tassone

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 20 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Anthony Tassone, the founder of Truleo, discusses how his company uses AI to transcribe and analyze police body camera footage to improve policing standards. Anthony dives into the potential of their AI platform to provide valuable insights from unreviewed body camera data, reduce administrative burdens, and increase the professionalism and accountability of police officers. He also shares his thoughts on the sales cycle in the public safety space, the potential for expansion beyond policing, and Truleo's current fundraising efforts.

Highlights include…
Truleo uses AI to transcribe and analyze police body camera footage, making it easier for police departments to review and learn from their interactions with civilians. (8:32)
The platform helps reduce the administrative burden on police officers and provides essential insights to improve their professionalism and reduce potential misconduct. (13:51)
The company sees potential for expansion beyond policing, such as in 911 call centers or any profession where measuring professionalism is essential. (23:20)
Truleo is raising capital through crowdfunding to fund the expansion of its success team and invest in its quality of service. (26:39)

Ep. 73 - Collin Castellaw

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 6 Jul 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino interviews Collin Castellaw, Co-Founder of PlayersTV. They discuss the shift in athletes’ perspective on content creation, the rise of PlayersTV, the potential for athlete-driven content, and the future of the sports media landscape.

Highlights include…
The genesis of PlayersTV and how it's become a one-stop-shop for athlete-driven content. (02:07)
The power of athletes controlling their narratives and building their brand independently. (03:50)
The business model of PlayersTV, including revenue sources from advertising, subscription, licensing, and merchandising. (05:40)
Castellaw dives into PlayersTV's plans to penetrate the NFL scene and further expand to other sports, domestically and internationally. (21:15)
Reviewing ESPN's shift to streaming services and how this trend impacts PlayersTV. (26:33)

Ep. 72 - Linh Dao Smooke

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino interviews Linh Dao Smooke, the chief operating officer of HackerNoon. HackerNoon is a platform where technologists publish their stories. Chris and Linh delve into the origins of HackerNoon, the platform's community-focused approach, and its ability to empower writers to monetize their content. Linh provides insight into their partnerships, funding, future vision, and her advice for potential writers who wish to contribute to HackerNoon.

Topics include...

-The early days of HackerNoon, including how the company was founded and its primary goal (11:27)
-HackerNoon's decision to move away from Medium and the importance of owning their content and creating a user-friendly interface (12:55)
-HackerNoon's community-focused approach and the advantages of its small team, (18:46)
-HackerNoon's future vision (20:43).

Ep. 71 - Manish Kapoor

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 8 Jun 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino talks with Manish Kapoor, the founder and CEO of TruKno, a cybersecurity startup. They discuss the unique AI-driven cybersecurity approach TruKno uses, the team's diverse background, their journey to find product-market fit, the company’s current fundraising efforts, and more.

Topics include...

How TruKno uses advanced AI algorithms to filter out irrelevant information and only present the most critical threats to its clients (02:28)
Two use cases where the company feels it has achieved good product-market fit and experiments with other potential uses (13:10)
The team behind TruKno, which consists of employees with diverse backgrounds and skills, spanning across four continents and speaking 11 languages (14:29)
Current fundraising efforts, including how TruKno plans to use funds (15:53)
The solution for maintaining customer stickiness and upselling (18:13)
How TruKno could potentially be an acquisition target for larger cybersecurity firms (20:58)
The importance of being in the right space at the right time (22:35).

Ep. 70 - Maria Springer

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 25 May 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of "Inside Startup Investing," Chris Lustrino engages in a lively conversation with Maria Springer, chief executive officer of Capital Department. They delve into how her company is providing a unique blend of fundraising expertise to help ambitious startups secure the financial backing they need to succeed. Maria gives insight into the challenging world of fundraising, the role her company plays in navigating this complex process, and the characteristics of the founders they typically work with.

Topics include...

How Capital Department bridges the gap between founders and investors and provides crucial expertise (07:55)
Some of the top mistakes founders make in the fundraising process (13:15)
The typical client profile for Capital Department (18:05)
Why startups choose Capital Department for their fundraising needs (21:35).

Ep. 69 - John Panaccione

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 11 May 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino speaks with John Panaccione, CEO of Folla Capital, a company specializing in regulatory crowdfunding. Panaccione discusses the evolution of crowdfunding, the impact of recent regulatory changes, and how Folla Capital helps startups navigate this landscape. He emphasizes the importance of extensive due diligence for securing investment, whether through traditional methods or crowdfunding. He also highlights the different strategies required for startups with different exit strategies and growth targets. This insightful discussion offers a deep dive into the world of crowdfunding and its growing relevance in startup investing.

Topics include...

How regulatory changes have expanded the pool of potential investors for startups (9:30-11:50)
How Folla Capital helps startups navigate the crowdfunding landscape, offering services ranging from choosing the right crowdfunding exemption to preparing for due diligence (16:20-18:00)
The importance of extensive due diligence when seeking investment, regardless of whether a startup is seeking funding through traditional channels or via crowdfunding (21:40-23:16)
Different strategies that startups may need to employ depending on their exit strategies and growth targets (26:08-27:34).

Ep. 68 - Etan Butler

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 4 May 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino interviews Etan Butler, chairman of Dalmore Group, to discuss the growing landscape of online private markets and fractional ownership. Etan shares insights on Dalmore's all-in-one solution for issuers and platforms, the increasing sophistication of issuers, and the growing demand for private alternative investments. They also cover the complexities of managing payments in the industry and how developments in secondary markets, blockchain, and tokenization may impact the space in the coming years.

Topics include..

Introduction to Dalmore Group and its all-in-one solution (06:15)

Increasing sophistication of issuers and demand for private alternatives (21:17)

Complexities of managing payments in the industry (24:04)

Future trends in secondary markets, blockchain, and tokenization (27:24).

Ep. 67 - Nigel Sharp

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 20 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino speaks with Aquagga CEO Nigel Sharp. Aquagga takes an innovative approach to mitigating PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination in water. Nigel discusses the origins of the company, its public benefit mission, and the traction it’s gained through grants, contracts, and industrial clients. Nigel also shares the environmental and societal implications of PFAS contamination, Aquagga's technological advancements, and the company's goals for the future.

Key highlights:
[00:05:14] Aquagga’s origins and mission
[00:12:45] The environmental and societal implications of PFAS contamination
[00:24:27] Aquagga's unique technological advancements to address PFAS contamination
[00:36:09] Aquagga’s traction through grants, contracts, and industrial clients

Ep. 66 - Jesse Randall

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 6 Apr 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Jesse Randall is the CEO of Sweater Ventures, which he founded in 2018 after 20 years of experience in venture capital (VC) and startups. He dropped the idea of a traditional VC fund due to his ineligibility as an accredited investor and worked with the SEC to create a structure for everyday investors to access the asset class. Randall previously founded six companies and ran a software accelerator where he worked with more than 200 startups. He is dedicated to leveling the playing field in the venture ecosystem and empowering retail investors to participate in the future economy.

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, host Chris Lustrino talks to Jesse about how Sweater Ventures’ innovative approach to venture capital makes it more accessible to everyday investors. They discuss the benefits of an evergreen fund structure, the challenges in managing fund growth, and how the concept of large portfolio theory guides Sweater Ventures’ investment strategy. See video timestamps below.

[06:25] The inspiration behind Sweater Ventures
[11:05] Understanding the Cashmere Fund: An evergreen fund structure
[17:40] The investment strategy and large portfolio theory
[25:06] Exit events and distributions in the Cashmere Fund
[26:25] Management fees and incentive structure for Sweater Ventures
[28:08] Balancing fund size and returns for optimal performance
[31:24] Re-envisioning venture capital and unicorn hunting

Episode 65 - Sober Entrepreneurship and the Future of Crowdfunding with Darren Marble

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 23 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, host Chris Lustrino interviews Darren Marble, CEO of Issuance and co-founder of Going Public. They discuss Darren's unique approach to entrepreneurship, the sober founder mindset [05:34], and the future of equity crowdfunding. Darren shares insights on how the industry can improve, the role of investment banks, and the importance of having institutional leads. They also explore the challenges faced by media and financial services startups [14:12], Darren's transformative journey to sobriety [21:55], the need for institutional pricing in the equity crowdfunding industry [26:21], and the benefits of having institutional leads and investment banks involved in crowdfunding deals [29:28].

Episode 64 - Netcapital

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 9 Mar 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Netcapital is one of the main platforms that hosts online startup investment opportunities. And it's been there since the early days of equity crowdfunding. Rob Burnett has grown alongside the company, beginning in a business development associate position. Now he's taken over as CEO. And as an industry insider, Rob has a unique view on how online startup investing is evolving.

On today's episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino discusses the latest happenings in equity crowdfunding with Rob. Rob and Chris talk about what's in store for online startup investing in 2023, how Netcapital is navigating the current economic volatility, and why failed companies have an upside.

Visit Netcapital: https://netcapital.com/

Episode 63 - Vinovest

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 23 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Fun may not be the first word you associate with investing. But Anthony Zhang, co-founder and CEO of Vinovest, is making it easy and fun for anyone to become a wine investor. Through Vinovest, investors don't have to worry about issues like storage or bottle sourcing that have historically kept everyone but the very wealthy from investing in wine. Instead, you can just tell Vinovest how much you want to invest and what your investing timeline is, and it will automatically help you build a wine portfolio that fits your needs. And with the platform's secondary market, active investors can take the lead on buying and selling wine themselves.

On today's episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino talks all things wine with Anthony. Important topics include how wine has outperformed the S&P 500 in recent decades, Vinovest's plans to expand into whiskey, and what kind of wine Anthony can't live without.

Check out Vinovest: https://www.vinovest.co/

Episode 62 - Skybound

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 9 Feb 2023 05:00:00 +0000

If you're familiar with The Walking Dead or Invincible, then you've encountered Skybound. Skybound is a new breed of media company. Rather than focusing solely on movie or television show production, it does full stack entertainment. From merchandise and comic books to video games and shows, Skybound sees endless opportunities in creative media.

On today's episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Skybound CEO David Alpert to discuss the company's unique business model. David talks about his creative vision for acquiring new intellectual property, how Skybound can stand out from traditional movies and shows, and what binge watching means for content creators.

Learn more about Skybound's deal: https://kingscrowd.com/skybound-holdings-on-republic-2022/

Check out Skybound's raise on Republic: https://republic.com/skybound

Invest in KingsCrowd: https://invest.kingscrowd.com/

Episode 61 - Pureboost

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 26 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000

Pureboost is a startup that is primed for success. From its stacked founding and executive team to its key product launch timing, things have just fell into place for Pureboost.

Pureboost makes clean and health energy drink mixes. And it stands out in the crowded energy drink market through its branding and its target audience of women.

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino talks to Pureboost co-founder Sean Ross about how his startup has avoided the common obstacles that consumer product goods (CPG) companies face. From why getting on shelves in Walmart isn't always a good idea to the importance of a rock-solid supply chain, this conversation is filled with expert insights.

Learn more about Pureboost's deal: https://kingscrowd.com/pureboost-on-wefunder-2022/

Check out Pureboost's raise: https://wefunder.com/pureboost/

Join the KingsCrowd Capital Fund I (accredited investors only): https://kingscrowd.com/capital/

Episode 60 - Sensate

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 12 Jan 2023 05:00:00 +0000

The new year is an excellent time to try and find ways to improve your life. And a common thing we all face is stress. Stress is a natural part of life -- but how we manage it can make a huge difference in our wellbeing. And Sensate is here to help.

Sensate has created a device that uses sounds and infrasonic resonance to reduce stress in users. It does this by tapping into the vagus nerve -- a central part of the nervous system -- and sending soothing vibrations that help calm feelings of stress. It's easy to use, and more than 90% of Sensate users said the device was more effective than meditation or other methods for improving their wellbeing.

On this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Sensate co-founder and CEO Anna Gudmundson to talk about this wellness device. Together they discuss how Sensate was founded, how the company is expanding its services based on customer feedback, the unit economics of Sensate, and more.

Episode 59 - Cloudastructure

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 29 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Security cameras can't provide safety on their own. It takes someone actually watching the footage to identify hazards or crimes. But what if surveillance could be proactive instead of reactive?

That's the goal of Cloudastructure. Cloudastructure provides surveillance software that automatically stores footage on the cloud. Then the company uses machine vision to crawl through that footage and enable easy searches within it. And it's combining that machine vision functionality with artificial intelligence to provide preventative surveillance.

On this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Cloudastructure's founder and CEO Rick Bentley to discuss the potential of his company's software. The two discuss how it's hard for computers to tell the difference between a fight and breakdancing, Cloudastructure's team growth, and the challenges of running a Regulation A raise.

Cloudastructure is currently raising capital: https://invest.cloudastructure.com/

Episode 58 - Cubo

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 15 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000

There's a lot to like about smoothies. They're healthy, delicious, portable, endlessly customizable. But making them can often feel like more trouble than it's worth. Prepping fruit and veggies and having to clean a blender take a lot of the fun out of smoothies.

What if there were a way to make smoothies that was as simple as pushing a button? That's what CUBO is providing. CUBO is like a Keurig machine for smoothies. Just pop a pod in, push the button, and within a minute there's a fresh smoothie waiting for you.

On today's episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes CUBO CEO Grichka Frachisse. Grichka explains how the need for a healthy and quick snack inspired the invention of CUBO. He and Chris also discuss why CUBO is starting with a business-to-consumer strategy, the advantages of a razor blade model, and more.

CUBO is currently raising funds on Wefunder: https://wefunder.com/cubobeverages/

Episode 57 - Gameflip

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 1 Dec 2022 05:00:00 +0000

There's a major problem in gaming -- but it might not seem obvious at first glance. As video games have moved from a physical asset (game consoles with specific game cartridges or discs) to a predominantly digital experience, gamers have gained the ability to purchase in game assets. These are digital goods that can take many forms. Some are purely aesthetic -- like changing the appearance of a character's clothes or weapons -- while others can actually affect gameplay. But once these assets are purchased, they're tied to a singular account. There's no way to trade or sell them, even if you don't plan on using them ever again.

As gamers themselves, the team at Gameflip recognized this problem. And they realized there was a major opportunity to evolve the gaming ecosystem by giving gamers real ownership over in-game assets. They created Gameflip to be a commerce platform where users can sell, buy, and trade digital gaming goods.

On today's episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Gameflip founder and CEO J. T. Nguyen and Marketing Manager Steve Caracappa. Together, they discuss why Gameflip uses blockchain technology, how game publishers can benefit from the marketplace, and what the company's next steps are.

Invest in Gameflip: https://www.startengine.com/offering/gameflip

Episode 56 - GROUNDFLOOR Co-founder Brian Dally

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 17 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +0000

GROUNDFLOOR is a platform that enables investors of all backgrounds to access debt-based real estate investments. It focuses on fractional shares -- meaning an investor can put a little as $10 into a loan that's worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. And that investor can start to receive returns on it within a year.

GROUNDFLOOR co-founder Brian Dally is a deep believer in the need for accessibility. Before crowdfunding, it was very difficult for retail investors to have exposure to debt-based real estate. But now, just as startup investing has been democratized by equity crowdfunding, real estate has also reached a new level of democratization. And GROUNDFLOOR is a major mover in the space.

On this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino and Brian talk about the power of the crowd in investing. They also discuss GROUNDFLOOR's current Wefunder raise, the downside of concentration in debt deals, and why GROUNDFLOOR now offers a savings account.

GROUNDFLOOR website: https://groundfloor.us/

GROUNDFLOOR Wefunder raise: https://wefunder.com/groundfloor/

Episode 55 - Nickelytics Founder Judah Longgrear

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 3 Nov 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Advertising is one of the hardest industries to keep up with. While the internet created a whole new form of advertising, tracking the effectiveness of ads is a continuous struggle for companies. And more traditional advertising -- like out-of-home advertising that's placed on billboards and buses -- has fallen behind when it comes to technology.

That's the gap Nickelytics wants to address. This startup connects brands with rideshare fleets to create mobile and highly visible advertising. It also uses GPS technology to track and quantify the impact ads are having.

On this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Nickelytics founder Judah Longgrear to learn more about this unique marketing approach. The two discuss the challenge of measuring an ad's effectiveness, how Nickelytics can expand to a global presence, and why the company is staying focused on mobility solutions.

Episode 54 - Arlan Hamilton of Backstage Capital

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Wed, 26 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Today's episode is a special edition. We're very excited to announce that KingsCrowd and Backstage Capital are adding a new dimension to our strategic partnership.

Chris Lustrino is joined by Backstage Capital founder Arlan Hamilton. And a major topic of discussion is the need for more diversity and inclusion in venture capital. Backstage is a venture capital firm that focuses on underrepresented founders. And KingsCrowd tracks founder demographics across the hundreds of deals available through online startup investing.

But here's the really exciting part -- for Backstage's new Flex Fund II, KingsCrowd will provide data and ratings on promising online deals that have underrepresented founders. This synergy between our data and analytics and Backstage's prioritization of diversity is a perfect collaboration. But don't take our word for it. Let Arlan tell you why this is such an exciting moment in startup investing.

Episode 53 - ActivArmor Founder Diana Hall

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 20 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Diana Hall has invented a better cast (the type your doctor gives you when you break a bone). After running a mentoring program for children from low income families, Diana saw how traditional plaster casts weren't cutting it. They couldn't be cleaned. They made it hard to see infections. And they were unnecessarily bulky. She knew there had to be a better way.

That was the inspiration for ActivArmor. Today, ActivArmor offers 3D casts and splints that empower patients to maintain active, hygienic lifestyles. The company uses a simple iPhone scan to design custom casts, and the results are breathable, waterproof, and sanitizable.

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Diana tells Chris Lustrino how her company is making the production of these next-gen casts even easier. The two also discuss how ActivArmor is ensuring that clinics benefit from adopting this technology, the health benefits of being able to shower with a cast, and the company's strategy for achieving mass adoption.

Episode 52 - Wefunder Goes to the EU

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 6 Oct 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Online startup investing isn't unique to the US. In fact, the EU legalized equity crowdfunding in 2014. And that headstart has given the EU market ample time to develop its regulations and become a well-established market.

But until recently, the US crowdfunding market and the EU crowdfunding market were disconnected. Wefunder wants to change that.

On this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Adrian Parlow, head of general counsel and vice president of corporate development at Wefunder. And Adrian has exciting news about Wefunder's expansion into the EU. Chris and Adrian also discuss how American investors can participate in EU raises, whether language is a barrier, and the continued need for investor education.

Episode 51 - Levi Brackman of Invown

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 22 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Real estate has long been viewed as a high stable investment asset. As a hard asset, real estate is seen as having more intrinsic value than stocks. And that can make it a great investment in times of market volatility -- like we're seeing today!

But similar to startups, real estate investing used to be primarily reserved for people who were already wealthy and who had the right connections. Thankfully, that's changing. And today's Inside Startup Investing guest, Levi Brackman, is part of that change.

Levi is the founder and CEO of Invown, a real estate investing marketplace that connects property owners with investors of all backgrounds. And on today's episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino and Levi discuss the democratization of real estate investing, how investors can think about debt vs equity in real estate deals, and some exciting deals that are coming to Invown soon.

Episode 50 - Ezra Levine of Collectable

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 8 Sep 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Alternative investing isn't limited to just startups. Alt assets include all kinds of investment opportunities -- from real estate and wine to art and sports memorabilia. But the one thing these assets have in common with startups is that new ways of investing have made them far more accessible to all investors.

In the collectibles market, fractional investing has made it possible to invest in a baseball card that's worth millions. Collectable founder Ezra Levine compares it to public stock market investing. When you invest in a publicly traded company like Google or Apple, you don't suddenly own the whole company. But you still benefit from its success. Fractional investing in sports memorabilia is very similar -- you can own a small portion of a sports card, jersey, or ball and potentially see returns as its value grows.

On today's episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Ezra, and the two dive into the fun world of sports collecting. Ezra discusses the origins of Collectable -- the sports-focused fractional investing platform he founded -- and some of the high dollar assets that have traded on the platform. Chris and Ezra also touch on liquidity in collectible investing, how the assets are protected, and whether sports investing is a long term or short term investment.

Episode 49 - OneDoor Studios

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 25 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Many people dream of Hollywood -- the cameras, the glam, the red carpet. And for most, it remains just a dream.

But one of the most exciting developments in the online private markets is the ability for retail investors to help fund movies. It's a unique opportunity that enables investors to be part of the creation of brand new films and production studios.

OneDoor Studios is such a new studio. Its first movies are based on a young adult novel series. And investors right now can help fund the film series.

On today's episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino talks to OneDoor Studios' three co-founders, John Lee Jr., Stephen Wollwerth, and Jason Brents. The group discusses how they found the young adult novels for their films, the nitty gritty details of film investing, and what investors should look for before making a film investment.

Episode 48 - Class Rebel Founder Brooke Harley

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 11 Aug 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Brooke Harley was a lawyer in the mergers and acquisitions space when the 2008 financial crisis hit. It was a wake up call for her.

She went back to school to get an MBA before working with lululemon for a while. And her time there showed her the potential of early investing. Brooke began angel investing on her own and soon realized there was a complete lack of education around capital raising and startup investing.

Brooke founded Class Rebel as a modern education company that started with a focus on angel investing and how founders can raise capital. And her mission to be upfront about the risks -- and potential rewards -- is a huge service to the startup investing community.

On this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino and Brooke discuss the strengths of online startup investing and how dramatic early investing can be. They also touch on how female founders are seeing better opportunities in the online private markets and the need for better liquidity options.

Episode 47 - Doriot Founder Gerry Hays

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 28 Jul 2022 05:00:00 +0000

It can seem daunting to begin startup investing. The risk, the long wait times for returns, the need to do extra due diligence -- it's a lot for a new investor to navigate.

That's the problem that Gerry Hays is solving with his company, Doriot.

Doriot is named after the father of venture capital, George Doriot. And the flagship of Doriot is the Fantasy Startups app. Fantasy Startups is a gamified simulation that walks users through the process of choosing to invest – or not – in a collection of 50 mock companies. Through this experience, players learn the importance of diversification, making consistent investments, and key terminology.

On this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino and Gerry talk about the need for education in startup investing. They also touch on the ability for everyday investors to overcome prejudice and a new way for investors to become accredited.

Episode 46 - ALAO Co-founders Peter Sweeney & Matt McGeagh

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 14 Jul 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Peter Sweeney and Matt McGeagh worked together at Goldman Sachs. And they noticed something while there. Companies were seeking out celebrities as investors and board members – and then many of them were reaching successful exits.

They also saw the rise of online startup investing firsthand. And they realized there was a synergy that no one had tapped into yet. By joining social media influencers together with online startup investing, ALAO was born.

On this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino talks to Peter and Matt about ALAO, one of the newest equity crowdfunding platforms to join the ecosystem. ALAO focuses on attracting younger investors by leveraging influencers and social media celebrities as part of the startup raises its hosts. Peter and Matt explain why they're taking a mobile-first approach, how they source both deals and influencers to work with, the importance of impact investing in ALAO's deals, and more.

Episode 45 - Harvey Multani of RUV Alliance

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 8 Jul 2022 05:00:00 +0000

From starting a data and analytics platform for billionaire investors to working at Coinbase and Plaid, Harvey Multani is no stranger to fintech. From his experiences as both a founder and an investor, he recognized that there's power in a group of investors coming together to choose deals and make investments.

Harvey also noticed a trend in startup investing – founders were using special purpose vehicles to enable their employees or groups of angel investors to fund their companies. And he realized that there was an opportunity.

Harvey founded RUV Alliance to bring together accredited investors and startup founders in a transparent and community-oriented way. RUV Alliance investors identify companies that they want the opportunity to invest in. Harvey and his team work to connect with the founders of those companies and from there, the rest is history.

On this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino talks to Harvey about how RUV Alliance was formed from a Twitter discussion. The two dive into the details of special purpose vehicles in investing, the importance of transparency, and how interested investors can join RUV.

Episode 44 - Impact Investing with Lea Bouhelier-Gautreau

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Lea Bouhelier-Gautreau is passionate about impact investing. Her research into entrepreneurship in the Malawi culture inspired her to center impact investing in her career. She sees the intersection between investing and trying to spark positive change as a powerful force in the world.

From solving climate change to fighting systemic inequality, impact investing can cover a wide spectrum of issues. In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino and Lea discuss the growth of impact investing in online startup investing and how important this funding is for creating vital solutions. They also talk about red flags – like green-washing and high risk technology – that investors should watch out for when looking for positive impact startups.

Episode 43 - Jane West of Jane West

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 2 Jun 2022 05:00:00 +0000

When Colorado legalized cannabis in 2015, Jane West saw an opportunity. She began hosting cannabis events in Colorado – and was immediately fired from her day job. But Jane continued organizing cannabis events. She gained national attention for her persistence, particularly after the mayor of Denver called a SWAT team on one of her events.

Despite her rocky beginning in the cannabis industry, Jane went on to found Jane West, a cannabis company that also sells cannabis accessories and CBD products. She has raised more than $700,000 from investors of all backgrounds and grown her company to be present across Canada and in 15 US states/districts.

In today's episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino and Jane discuss the evolving cannabis market, how her company addresses the needs of a modern cannabis consumer, and the inequalities that still persist in the cannabis market.

Episode 42 - Leon Benrimon of StartEngine Collectibles

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 19 May 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Owning or collecting artwork feels inaccessible for many people. From issues of how to properly store a painting to not knowing the nuances of one artist over another, it's an asset class that's been dominated by wealthy individuals.

Leon Benrimon wants to see that change. He believes artwork – and other forms of collectibles – should be accessible to everyone.

Leon is the vice president of assets at StartEngine. And he's excited that StartEngine Collectibles is giving retail investors the chance to start learning about and investing in collectibles like art, watches, wine, and more.

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino and Leon talk about the joys of collecting and the ways that collectible investing is changing. Topics include how collectible investing can be a stepping stone to becoming a collector, upside potential, how collectibles perform in economic downturns, and more.

Episode 41 - Aaron Burnett of Spaced Ventures

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 5 May 2022 05:00:00 +0000

More than $14 billion was invested in space companies in 2021. But much of that capital is concentrated in a few, big name companies.

Space startups that are just getting off the ground still struggle to receive investments – even if they have amazing ideas that could transform the industry.

Enter Spaced Ventures. It's an equity crowdfunding platform focused on space startups that are too early to receive ample venture capital interest. Instead, Spaced Ventures brings retail investors together with founders that are creating the future of space.

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Spaced Ventures founder and CEO Aaron Burnett. Aaron shares how he pivoted from volunteer work in South America to solving the funding problem for seed stage space startups through Spaced Ventures. Spoiler alert: SpaceX is involved.

Visit Spaced Ventures and see startups open for investment: https://www.spacedventures.com/

Episode 40 - Jesse Stein of Everyrealm

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

What is the metaverse?

According to Everyrealm co-founder Jesse Stein, there is no single metaverse. But the heart of any metaverse is interactivity.

In this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino welcomes Jesse, an early mover in the metaverse space. Everyrealm (formerly Republic Realm) launched a virtual real estate fund in 2021 – just as interest in NFTs and the metaverse was starting to emerge. Today, Everyrealm is at the forefront of developing metaverse investment products and virtual assets within the digital space.

Join Chris and Jesse as they discuss what makes the metaverse so exciting, how an economic downturn might affect virtual real estate, where Everyrealm fits in, and more.

Episode 39 - James McGibney & Rick Bentley of Hydro Hash

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 7 Apr 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Crypto mining is hot – literally. The equipment used to mine bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies generates significant amounts of heat and noise.

Heat generated by computers is nothing new. Engineers have been using liquid cooling to help powerful computers run more efficiently for years. But no one was applying liquid cooling to crypto mining. Until Hydro Hash.

Rick Bentley and James McGibney are on a mission to make crypto mining more sustainable through Hydro Hash. They're starting with liquid cooling – but the mission doesn't stop there. Power sources, mobility, and efficiency are all major concerns as well.

On this episode of Inside Startup Investing, Chris Lustrino gets a crash course in cryptocurrency and crypto mining from Rick and James. From the difference between proof of stake and proof of work to the question of whether a digital currency is the future of crypto, this conversation covers all of today's key crypto issues.

Episode 38 - Nathan Beckord of Foundersuite

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Even with online startup investing enabling the connection between thousands of investors and startups across the country, raising capital is still hard. Nathan Beckord knows that better than most.

Nathan's entire career has been focused on helping founders raise money. And those years of experience are what inspired him to found his software company, Foundersuite.

Foundersuite is tailored to solving the numerous pain points involved in capital raises. From identifying the best investors for a specific company to organizing the dozens of conversations that have to happen in quick succession, Foundersuite helps make the process more efficient.

On this episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investor Podcast, Chris Lustrino and Nathan talk about the importance of relationship building. Nathan has seen firsthand how starting early with outreach to potential investors and how creating connections with other founders can make a huge difference down the road. And he's built Foundersuite so that founders can spend more time on those crucial conversations.

Episode 37 - Rebecca Kacaba of DealMaker

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 10 Mar 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Rebecca Kacaba has been in the startup game for more than a decade. While working as a capital markets attorney, she noticed a persistent problem – startup founders were struggling with raising capital. And specifically, they were struggling with the nitty gritty details that come after an investor agrees to fund a startup.

In that struggle, Rebecca saw an opportunity. And she set out to build the "Shopify for raising capital."

DealMaker is a platform that focuses on being behind the scenes of capital raises. Founders take the center stage as they raise capital, and DealMaker provides all the resources to make that process quick and simple. With more than $1 billion in successful raises last year, DealMaker has established itself as a name in the startup investing space.

In this episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast, Chris Lustrino talks to Rebecca about how DealMaker is providing clarity to founders. By letting startups self-host their own capital raises, DealMaker can leverage its partner network and data analytics to set founders up for success.

Episode 36 - Emily Cisek of The Postage

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0000

When many people think about end-of-life planning, they focus on their will and how to pass on wealth or material goods. But what about the intangible things? Special memories, pictures from holidays, family recipes – legal documents can't cover these important family possessions.

That unanswered need is part of what inspired Emily Cisek to found The Postage.

Emily lost three family members in just six short weeks. And seeing how much planning – or lack of it – affected the process after these losses showed her the need for a better, centralized solution.

In this episode of KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast, Chris Lustrino talks to Emily Cisek about how The Postage is a modern solution to end-of-life planning. Emily knows that having a will in place isn't enough – and that not everyone has the same access to will creation. That's why The Postage handles everything from will creation to photo storage to after death messaging.

Emily and her team are currently raising capital on MicroVentures.

Episode 35 - Wes Burdine of the Minnesota Women's Soccer Team

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 10 Feb 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Soccer is rapidly capturing the attention and hearts of American viewers. Major League Soccer (MLS) saw viewership grow by 38% from 2019 for its 2021 championship cup game. And the United States women's national soccer team won the 2019 Women's World Cup for the fourth time.

In Minnesota, Wes Burdine was very familiar with the popularity of soccer. He owned a bar across from a major soccer arena, gathering fans together for drinks and camaraderie. But Wes also recognized that there was an unanswered need in Minnesota's soccer community.

There was no women's team.

In this episode of KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast, Chris Lustrino welcomes Wes Burdine in to tell us about how he and his fellow co-founders decided to bring women's soccer to Minnesota. Wes believes there's more work to be done in ensuring that women's soccer teams receive the recognition they deserve. And he tells Chris how the Minnesota Women's Soccer Team stayed focused on grassroots growth and community investment as part of that effort. Wes believes that soccer can be sustainable – a mission that more than 3,000 investors agreed with.

This episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing podcast is sponsored by TWO12. If you're a founder in need of a cap table management solution, check out TWO12.

Special Offer Founders can use the discount code KINGSCROWD25 to receive 25% off the first year ($60 saving). Sign up at https://sigma.TWO12.co/sign-up.

Episode 34: Anthony Franco of M.C. Squares

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 27 Jan 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Previously featured on Shark Tank, M.C. Squares's suite of dry-erase product families is fast becoming a favorite for both home and office use. The two discuss Anthony's career as an entrepreneur and his decision to raise growth capital for his business from the crowd.

Learn more about M.C. Squares as a potential early-stage investment at KingsCrowd: https://bit.ly/3o4OQMk

This episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing podcast is sponsored by TWO12. If you're a founder in need of a cap table management solution, check out TWO12.

Special Offer Founders can use the discount code KINGSCROWD25 to receive 25% off the first year ($60 saving). Sign up at https://sigma.TWO12.co/sign-up.

KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast Ep 33: Rebekah Bastian of Owntrail

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 13 Jan 2022 05:00:00 +0000

Become a KingsCrowd Subscriber: https://bit.ly/3meC39c
KingsCrowd Premium Startup Investment Ratings & Analysis Free for 7-Day Offer: https://bit.ly/3mgki9z

This episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing podcast is sponsored by TWO12. If you're a founder in need of a cap table management solution, check out TWO12.

Special Offer Founders can use the discount code KINGSCROWD25 to receive 25% off the first year ($60 saving). Sign up at https://sigma.TWO12.co/sign-up.

Episode 32: Tony Drockton of Hammitt

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0000

The two discuss entrepreneurship, Hammitt's plans to create the next great American luxury brand, and Drockton's experiences raising money from the crowd.

Become a KingsCrowd Subscriber: https://bit.ly/3meC39c
Hammitt's Reg A raise: https://invest.hammitt.com/
KingsCrowd Premium Startup Investment Ratings & Analysis Free for 7-Day Offer: https://bit.ly/3mgki9z

This episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing podcast is sponsored by TWO12. If you're a founder in need of a cap table management solution, check out TWO12.

Special Offer Founders can use the discount code KINGSCROWD25 to receive 25% off the first year ($60 saving). Sign up at https://sigma.TWO12.co/sign-up.

Episode 31: Garry Johnson of Bison Venture Partners

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0000

The two thought leaders discuss the rapidly shifting startup investing space and what the future holds for investors looking to dive in.

Become a KingsCrowd Subscriber: https://bit.ly/3meC39c
KingsCrowd Premium Startup Investment Ratings & Analysis Free for 7-Day Offer: https://bit.ly/3mgki9z

This episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing podcast is sponsored by TWO12. If you're a founder in need of a cap table management solution, check out TWO12.

Special Offer Founders can use the discount code KINGSCROWD25 to receive 25% off the first year ($60 saving). Sign up at https://sigma.TWO12.co/sign-up.

Episode 30 - Legion M

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 2 Dec 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode, the trio discusses the crowdfunding revolution and how it empowers both consumers and investors alike.

Become a KingsCrowd Subscriber: https://kingscrowd.com/register/free/
KingsCrowd Premium Startup Investment Ratings & Analysis Free for 7-Day Offer: https://kingscrowd.com/register/pro/?coupon=TRIAL7
KingsCrowd's Legion M Company Page: https://kingscrowd.com/legion-m-on-startengine-2021/
Legion M's StartEngine raise: https://www.startengine.com/legionm

This episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing podcast is sponsored by TWO12. If you're a founder in need of a cap table management solution, check out TWO12.

Special Offer Founders can use the discount code KINGSCROWD25 to receive 25% off the first year ($60 saving). Sign up at https://sigma.TWO12.co/sign-up.

Episode 29 - Dustin Byington of Two12

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 18 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0000

TWO12 is a startup finance Software-as-a-Service suite built to help founders reduce dilution and maximize control with cap table management, valuation, and pro forma report generation.
This episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast is sponsored by TWO12. If you're a founder in need of a cap table management solution, check out TWO12.
Special Offer Founders can use the discount code KINGSCROWD25 to receive 25% off the first year ($60 saving). Sign up at https://sigma.TWO12.co/sign-up.

Episode 28: Shari Noonan of Rialto Markets

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 4 Nov 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Rialto Markets serves as a fully regulated broker-dealer, helping companies raise money through their crowdfunding platform. Rialto also operates a secondary market trading platform for buying and selling shares in private companies.

This episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing podcast is sponsored by TWO12. If you're a founder in need of a cap table management solution, check out TWO12.

Special Offer Founders can use the discount code KINGSCROWD25 to receive 25% off the first year ($60 saving). Sign up at https://sigma.TWO12.co/sign-up.

Episode 27 - Henry Yoshida of Rocket Dollar

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the podcast, KingsCrowd CEO Chris Lustrino welcomes Henry Yoshida, Co-founder, and CEO of Rocket Dollar.
Rocket Dollar, an alternative IRA that enables you to invest efficiently in alternative investment opportunities.
The two discuss the online private market ecosystem, how it has developed since the two founded their respective companies, and what they look forward to in the future.
Visit Rocket Dollar: https://www.rocketdollar.com/
Visit KingsCrowd: https://kingscrowd.com/
Try KingsCrowd's Merlin Startup Research Platform Free for 30 Days: https://inbound.kingscrowd.com/kingscrowd-merlin-demo

Episode 26 - Anita Brearton

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 8 Oct 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On today's episode of the podcast, Chris Lustrino welcomes CabinetM Founder & CEO Anita Brearton.

Listen in to meet an incredible venture-backed female founder enabling a new generation of marketers. Investors will also learn why Anita's 20+ years of marketing experience has given her the knowledge and network to build CabinetM

The pair also dive into why raising from "the crowd" has been such a value-add beyond traditional VC.

View CabinetM's Wefunder raise: https://wefunder.com/cabinetm/
Subscribe to KingsCrowd free: https://kingscrowd.com/register/free/

Episode 25 - Novalent Lead Investor Alex Ovchar

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 05:00:00 +0000

What do private equity investors look for in startups?
Join us for this episode of the podcast where Chris Lustrino welcomes Alex Ovchar, a lead investor of PE-backed Novalent currently raising via Reg D on Republic.
The pair also discuss why Novalent decided to raise in the online private markets via RegD, the technology behind their disinfectant technology and how they grew from $2 to $7M in the past year, and their plans to grow Novalent with COVID tailwinds.
To view the fundraising round which closes September 30, 2021 visit: https://republic.co/novalent
For a full demo of KingsCrowd's Ratings & Analytics platform go here: https://inbound.kingscrowd.com/kingscrowd-merlin-demo

Episode 24 - Dr. Arup Roy-Burman

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Invest Podcast, Sean O'Reilly welcomes Dr. Arup Roy-Burman, Founder & CEO of Elemeno Health where the two seek to answer the question: "What's the one thing investors should look for in a startup founder?"

The answer, it turns out, is the founder's "Why".

First identified as a key trait of winning organizations by Simon Sinek, "Why" is defined as a belief or experience that drives a founder to build their companies up from nothing.

Dr. Roy-Burmanshares his own "Why" and how it drove him to revolutionize how training is done in America's healthcare system.

KingsCrowd's full Elemeno Health Rating & Research Report free here: https://inbound.kingscrowd.com/elemenohealth

Elemeno Health's raise live on Start Engine: https://www.startengine.com/elemeno-health

Episode 23 - Sam Bogoch

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 3 Sep 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode of KingsCrowd's Startup Investing Podcast, host Sean O'Reilly welcomes Sam Bogoch, Cofounder and CEO of axle ai.
Axle ai's software combines the power of AI and machine learning to remotely search and manage your video content. Axle.ai boasts over 700 customers worldwide including Paramount, CBS, NBC, the NY Yankees, and Price Waterhouse Coopers.
The two discuss the growing trend towards remote work and entrepreneurship and what that means for both founders and investors.
To subscribe to KingsCrowd for free and get the latest startup investing news and information go here: https://kingscrowd.com/register/free/
Axle ai: https://axle.ai/

Episode 22 - Justin Renfro

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 26 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode, KingsCrowd CEO Chris Lustrino welcomes equity crowdfunding platform Wefunder's Director of Partnerships Justin Renfro.

Episode 21 - Josh Chodniewicz

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Mon, 16 Aug 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode, KingsCrowd CEO Chris Lustrino welcomes Josh Choniewicz, CEO of Fundify as well as the Co-founder and CEO of art.com.

The two discuss why the process of investing in early-stage venturesshould be made easier for both founders and individuals.

Episode 20 - Trung Pham

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing podcast, Sean O'Reilly welcomes Trung Pham, the Co-founder and CEO of RYSE. Trung and his team are hoping to disrupt the commercial and in-home smart shade market with their flagship SmartShade product. The two discuss why a Reg A crowdfunding raise was the right move for his company to raise capital and how he was able to navigate the U.S. crowdfunding market despite being a Toronto-based entrepreneur.

For a free trial to KingsCrowd's startup research platform go here: https://www.kingscrowd.com/register/merlin/?coupon=TRIAL7

For more about KingsCrowd visit: https://www.kingscrowd.com

RYSE's homepage: https://www.helloryse.com/
RYSE's raise page: https://invest.helloryse.com/

Episode 19 - Vin Narayanan

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast, CEO Chris Lustrino welcomes KingsCrowd's SVP of Strategy Vin Narayanan to discuss a fast-growing sub-sector of the online private markets: Gaming. The two discuss the market, how it works, and even offer up an intriguing investment opportunity in the online gaming space currently available to investors.

Episode 18 - David Callway

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast Chris Lustrino welcomes Callaway Climate Insights' David Callway to the show. The two discuss the current state of renewable energy investments and the potential for the early-stage startups to disrupt the current energy paradigm.

Potential early-stage clean energy investments in LPPFUSION (raising on Wefunder), Flower Turbines (currently raising on Start Engine), and Manta Biofuels (raising on Republic) are also touched upon.
Learn more about Callaway Climate Insights at https://www.callawayclimateinsights.com/

Episode 17 - Bruce Virga & Kim LaFleur

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 17 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast, Chris Lustrino welcomes Bruce Virga & Kim LaFleur of Title 3 Funds.
The conversation covers Title 3's new crowdfunding platform as well as the importance of performing due diligence when raising startup growth capital.

Episode 16 - Krishan Arora

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast, Chris Lustrino shares a conversation with Krishan Arora. Krishan is the CEO of The Arora Project, a leader in equity crowdfunding capital raise campaigns.

Episode 15 - Jason Frishman

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Mon, 24 May 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast KingsCrowd CEO Chris Lustrino welcomes Netcapital System's President & Founder Jason Frishman. The two discuss the history of their two companies, how the Pre-IPO startup investing market has changed over the years, and what the future holds.

Episode 14 - Olivia Strobl

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Sat, 24 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode of the podcast, Sean O'Reilly welcomes KingsCrowd Investment Associate Olivia Stroble. The two discuss KingsCrowd's recently published KingsCrowd Regulation Crowdfunding 2018-2020 Intelligence Report.
The KingsCrowd Regulation Crowdfunding 2018-2020 Intelligence Report compiles over 150 Regulation Crowdfunding (Reg CF) market statistics, insights, and analytics presented in an easy-to-read visual format.
Readers receive a comprehensive overview of the Reg CF market as of 2020, as well as a look ahead at what could be a record-shattering 2021.
Parties interested in obtaining a copy of KingsCrowd’s Regulation Crowdfunding 2018-2020 Intelligence Report should visit trends.kingscrowd.com.

Episode 13 - Blake Janover

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Wed, 14 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On this episode Chris Lustrino is joined by Blake Janover, Founder & CEO of tech enabled commercial real estate and business lending startup Janover Ventures. The two discuss the fintech market and how they see the industry evolving.

Episode 12 - Vin Narayanan

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 2 Apr 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Today's guest is Vin Narayanan the Vice President of Strategy for KingsCrowd and Early Investing. The two discuss why the regulation crowdfunding market is particularly well-suited for biotech and pharmacy startups and why that's great news for investors.

Episode 11 - Chuck Pettid

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On today’s episode, KingsCrowd CEO Chris Lustrino welcomes Republic’s Chuck Pettid. The two discuss recent events in the equity crowdfunding space and what the future holds.

Episode 10 - Andy Gordon

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 05:00:00 +0000

KingsCrowd's Sean O'Reilly welcomes back Early Investing's Andy Gordon. The two discuss March 15th's Reg CF raise max increase from $1.07M to $5M and what that means for both startups and investors alike.

Episode 9

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 4 Mar 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the KingsCrowd Startup Investing Podcast Sean O'Reilly & Chris Lustrino go for FY2020 equity crowdfunding market data as a way of previewing the release of KingsCrowd's impending annual report. Key data points include average raise size, top industries for startups looking to raise capital, and more.

Episode 8: Tom Lix

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 05:00:00 +0000

On today’s episode, KingsCrowd CEO Chris Lustrino welcomes Tom Lix, Founder & CEO of Cleveland Whiskey as well as a pioneering user of online private markets. They discuss what Tom has found positive and challenging about raising capital from the public. How Cleveland Whiskey has grown while building extreme customer loyalty. And How Cleveland Whiskey has used investor capital to grow their business, invest in technology, and support the public curing Covid-19.

Episode 7 - Jonny Price

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Wed, 10 Feb 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Today's episode of the KC Startup Investing Podcast features Chris & Sean welcoming Jonny Price, Director of Fundraising at equity crowdfunding platform Wefunder to discuss Wefunder's recent successes, how fundraising platforms can empower entrepreneurs, and what the year ahead might have in store for the online private markets

Episode 6 - Andy Gordon

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In today's episode of the KC Podcast, startup investing industry veteran and Early Investing Andy Gordon joins Sean to discuss his career as a international entrepreneur, the latest developments in the crowdfunding market, and how early stage private market investing has changed since it's beginnings in 2012.

Episode 5

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 05:00:00 +0000

Sean O'Reilly & Chris Lustrino discuss the origins of equity crowdfunding as America emerged from the 2009 Financial Crisis, recent changes to the startup investing market by the SEC, and what a newly minted President Biden means for the online private markets.

Episode 4 - Eric Cox

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of KingsCrowd’s Startup Podcast, Chris and Sean welcome NetCapital Head of West Coast Operations Eric Cox. NetCapital is one of the equity crowdfunding markets leading platforms and the trio discuss recent market events and what it means that startups can now raise $5 million through a Regulation CF round per SEC guidelines.

Episode 3 - Chris Lustrino

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Mon, 11 Jan 2021 05:00:00 +0000

In their first podcast of 2021, KingsCrowd's CEO Chris Lustrino & CMO Sean O'Reilly welcome KingsCrowd Analyst Olivia Stroble to the podcast where the they discuss all that happened with the growth of online private markets in 2020 and what early-stage investors can look forward to in 2021.

Episode 2 - Chris Lustrino

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 24 Dec 2020 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of KingsCrowd's Startup podcast, Chris & Sean dive into the great startup investments of all time and what they can teach today's private markets investors about how to succeed at investing in early-stage companies.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m86k8ctN5cM&feature=youtu.be

Episode 1 - Chris Lustrino

support@kingscrowd.com (Kingscrowd) — Thu, 17 Dec 2020 05:00:00 +0000

In the inaugural episode of KingsCrowd's Startup Podcast, KingsCrowd CEO & Founder Chris Lustrino dives into the private markets with KingsCrowd CMO Sean O'Reilly and together they explore how anyone can invest in fast-growing startups.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugWT3vDM2Ow&feature=youtu.be