Hey hey, it’s Uncle Rob! 👋 It’s Friday, November 7th, and we’re back for another episode of Stoppage Time with Uncle Rob — the weekly space where I slow things down, reflect, and share a few stories from the journey of life, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
This week’s episode is a mix of nostalgia, storytelling, and reflection — all sparked by my latest Entrepreneurial Thinkers conversation with my longtime friend Rocío Fonseca, Founder of DREI Ventures in Santiago, Chile. That chat took me right back to my years living and working across Latin America — the people, the culture, and the life lessons that shaped everything I do today.
From an unexpected knee injury in Hollywood (yep, I’m recording this one on crutches!) to the origin story of how “Uncle Rob” was born on a rooftop in Santiago, to the deeper “why” behind the stories we tell on our shows — this episode brings it all together.
If you’ve ever thought about taking a leap, reinventing yourself, or finding meaning in your work and leadership journey — this one’s for you. I share how my own midlife adventure of selling everything, moving abroad with just three bags, and diving into the unknown became the foundation for the community we’ve built here.
So grab your coffee (or your favorite drink), settle in, and join me for a heartfelt conversation about purpose, connection, and the power of storytelling.
🎙️ Welcome to Stoppage Time with Uncle Rob — where every minute counts, even after the final whistle.
Can you build a modern Nation on the collaboration between the best startup entrepreneurs, private capital and corporate executives? What happens when startups stop chasing hype and start solving real societal problems? In this episode of Entrepreneurial Thinkers, Rob sits down with long time Chilean innovation leader, Rocio Fonseca, Co-founder of Drei Ventures, to explore how Chile is becoming a hotbed for innovation with purpose. They discuss the evolving startup scene, why legacy matters more than ever, and how connecting bold entrepreneurs with forward-thinking corporations is changing the game. Rocio brings raw insight, practical wisdom, and a powerful vision for a more sustainable entrepreneurial future.
Feel free to follow and engage with ROCIO here:
We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.
As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.
¡Cheers y gracias!,
Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurial Thinkers
02:59 The Entrepreneurial Economy in Chile
05:47 Opportunities and Challenges in Chile's Startup Ecosystem
08:48 The Role of Corporations in Innovation
11:56 Cross-Industry Innovations and Trends
14:58 Obstacles to Growth in Chile's Entrepreneurial Landscape
17:57 Cultural Barriers and Social Capital
20:53 The Impact of Government on Entrepreneurship
23:49 Globalization vs. Nationalism in Latin America
26:51 The Future of Innovation in Chile
33:16 Navigating Public Sector Funding Risks
35:43 Transitioning to Dre Ventures
39:40 Connecting Corporations and Startups
44:45 Vision for the Future of Dre Ventures
48:41 Challenging Gender Dynamics in Corporate Culture
51:37 Personal Innovation and Lifelong Learning
55:30 Legacy and Results in Corporate Leadership
Hey hey—it’s Friday, it’s Halloween, and it’s time for another round of Stoppage Time with Uncle Rob!
In this week’s episode, I’m catching up on life, reflecting on Halloween traditions (past and future), and diving deep into the week that was—new Entrepreneurial Thinkers episodes, big developments in California’s booming Life Sciences industry, and some personal thoughts on creativity, purpose, and what’s next for this very show.
You’ll hear about my recent conversation with my good friend (and show alum) Dave Whelan as we explore how massive investments and new innovation hubs are shaping the future of Life Sciences in Los Angeles—and how that’s changing the way we’ll all live and thrive in the years ahead.
Beyond that, it’s one of those laid-back, honest Fridays where we take a step back and ask: What’s this show really about? Has it evolved, or is it ready to evolve again? And how can we make it even more valuable or inspiring for you—our listeners and friends?
So grab a coffee (or maybe a little leftover Halloween candy), settle in, and join me for another thoughtful, unscripted hangout full of reflection, inspiration, and a touch of weekend energy.
💬 Got ideas for where Stoppage Time should go next? Drop me a DM @iamrobryan — I’d love to hear from you.
Peace out, happy Halloween, and see you next week! 👋🎃
Is our Life Sciences industry the most under-reported unicorn in California’s industrial dominance? Can Life Sciences innovation survive the USA government’s assault on science? In this eye-opening episode, Rob sits down with friend Dave Whelan, to uncover how LA is rapidly transforming into a major player in biotech and health innovation. They discuss groundbreaking projects like UCLA’s new Research Park, the explosion of AI in drug discovery, and how diversity and storytelling are shaping the future of healthcare and life sciences startups. From political roadblocks to billion-dollar opportunities, this conversation is packed with insights for anyone curious about where health tech is heading—and why LA might just be leading the charge.
Feel free to follow and engage with DAVE here:
We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.
As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.
¡Cheers y gracias!,
Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurial Thinkers
04:46 The Evolution of Life Sciences in California
19:03 UCLA Research Park: A New Era for Innovation
28:37 The Vision for Life Sciences Development
33:31 The Role of Universities in Life Sciences
37:23 Navigating Funding Challenges in Academia
47:03 Breakthroughs in Life Sciences and AI's Impact
56:55 Understanding Neurodegenerative Diseases
58:47 Diversity in Innovation and Health Sciences
01:06:37 The Importance of Storytelling in Health Tech
01:11:56 Dave Whelan's Multifaceted Career and Contributions
01:18:04 Key Mistakes in Health Tech Innovation
Hey hey, Happy Friday, and welcome back to Stoppage Time with Uncle Rob — our weekly Friday ritual to pause, reflect, and connect.
This week, Uncle Rob dives deep into one powerful theme that shaped both his professional and personal life: TRUST.
From an inspiring conversation with best-selling author and workplace culture expert Minda Harts — exploring the seven trust languages and what it means to build genuine, trust-centered workplaces — to a heartfelt moment celebrating his grandson Leo’s first birthday in Griffith Park, Uncle Rob discovers how trust weaves through every part of life.
Through laughter, love, and reflection, he connects these moments to a larger question: how do we rebuild trust in each other, in our communities, and in our shared truths during a time when distrust seems to rule our world?
Join the conversation as Uncle Rob unpacks lessons from Minda’s wisdom, moments of family joy, and his own reflections on the state of our society — all reminding us that trust isn’t just a concept… it’s the foundation of who we are together.
Watch, listen, and take a pause with Uncle Rob — because a little reflection can go a long way toward leaving the world better than we found it.
Is trust dead at work? Maybe it is. Do you trust the folks you work with? Maybe not. Bestselling author, workplace culture expert and filmmaker Minda Harts says it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, she joins Rob, to explore the real reasons trust breaks down in organizations—and what leaders can do to rebuild it. From generational differences to communication gaps, Minda shares practical insights from her own life and her new book, “Talk to Me Nice, The Seven Trust Languages for a Better Workplace.” She reveals how these “7 Trust Languages” can transform your teams, our leadership and our work cultures. Whether you're a leader, manager, or team member, this is a must-listen if you want to create a workplace where people feel heard, respected, and valued or if you want to ensure you are seen and valued in your career.
Feel free to follow and engage with MINDA here:
We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.
As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.
¡Cheers y gracias!,
Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Trust in the Workplace
07:55 Building Trust Through Communication
13:29 The Role of Generational Differences in Trust
21:31 Understanding Trust Languages
25:59 Implementing Trust Languages for Better Relationships
34:04 The Impact of Leadership on Workplace Culture
36:28 Innovative Approaches to Building Trust
38:57 Navigating Societal Extremes and Workplace Dynamics
41:36 The Crossroads of Progress and Regression
47:34 Minda's Creative Journey: From Writer to Filmmaker
57:42 Empowering Employees to Challenge the Status Quo
In this episode of Stoppage Time with Uncle Rob, we dive deep into the power of storytelling, writing, and human creativity—and why these uniquely human skills matter now more than ever. As AI continues to evolve, there's an urgent need to protect the core of what makes us human: our stories, our words, and our voices.
Rob reflects on the journey of building a podcast business rooted in community, authenticity, and purpose, while celebrating the incredible stories emerging from new creators. Joined by writer and thought leader Leta McCullough Seletzky, this wide-ranging conversation challenges the idea that AI can—or should—replace our creative expression. Together, they explore how writing grounds us, how podcasting amplifies voices, and how gratitude and storytelling fuel both entrepreneurship and personal growth.
This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a reminder that your voice matters. Your story matters. And in a world speeding toward automation, choosing to write, read, and reflect is an act of radical humanity.
If you care about creativity, entrepreneurship, and living with intention—this one’s for you. Stick around for the whole journey.
Chapters00:00 Introduction to Storytelling and Creativity
02:44 The Power of Personal Stories
06:07 Writing in the Age of AI
08:54 The Importance of Storytelling in Business
12:04 Reflections on Life and Gratitude
What happens to our ability to tell stories, when machines can write everything for us? In this compelling conversation that explores a fundamental piece of our humanity. Rob sits down with author, professor, and former federal government attorney, Leta McCollough Seletzky, whose writing has been featured in the New York Times, Oprah Magazine, The Washington Post and elsewhere, to explore the future and importance of writing in this age of AI. Leta explains why our ability to write and read, as humans is critical to our existence and our ability to thrive as a species, and how writing connects us, as well as what it takes to inspire the next generation of voices. Leta also opens up about her powerful memoir The Kneeling Man, revealing a deeply personal story tied to a defining moment in American history and her own upbringing. This episode is a reminder of the enduring power of words—even in a world that's rapidly changing.
Feel free to follow and engage with LETA here:
We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.
As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.
¡Cheers y gracias!,
Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.
Chapters
00:00 The Importance of Writing in Society
05:52 AI's Role in Writing and Communication
11:56 The Value of Writing Skills in a Digital Age
17:51 Teaching Writing: Methods and Approaches
23:59 Inspiring the Next Generation of Writers
29:42 Diversity in Storytelling and Its Societal Impact
35:56 The Kneeling Man: A Personal Story
47:46 Navigating Public Discourse and Online Communication
53:31 The Power of Writing in Today's World
59:38 Career Evolution: From Law to Writing
Welcome back to Stoppage Time with Uncle Rob! In this week’s episode, Rob Ryan takes you on a deep, unfiltered journey through the highs, lows, and unexpected turns of life, business, and everything in between. From electric vehicles and entrepreneurial lessons to emotional sports moments and the power of family, this episode is a rich tapestry of real talk, personal growth, and current events.
Rob reflects on the week’s most impactful stories—not just what's happening in the world, but how it all connects to everyday life. You’ll hear candid takes on politics and civic engagement, hard truths about the challenges in the EV industry, and heartfelt moments about the importance of community, storytelling, and staying grounded.
Whether you're here for the sports breakdowns, life advice, or raw entrepreneurial insights, this episode has something for everyone. So sit back, lock in, and enjoy a powerful blend of thought-provoking commentary, personal reflection, and a few laughs along the way.
While everyone is focusing on EV cars, who is looking out after the charger network to power all those cars? In this episode of Entrepreneurial Thinkers, Rob sits down here in Los Angeles, with Kameale Terry, the humble and innovative CEO of ChargerHelp, to explore the surprising gaps in clean energy infrastructure — and her teams’ bold ideas to build the diverse workforce needed to fix them. From her unexpected path out of retail banking to becoming a clean energy leader, Kameale shares what it takes to build a business, a movement, and a future-ready workforce in the clean energy space. Whether you're pursuing a career in clean energy, or are starting or investing in the green tech companies, or are an EV owner, wondering how we’ll keep your cars running across the nation, this episode brings fresh insight and practical takeaways.
Feel free to follow and engage with KAMEALE here:
We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.
As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.
¡Cheers y gracias!,
Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Entrepreneurial Thinkers
03:39 Meet Kameale Terry: A Leader in Clean Energy
09:46 The Future of EV Charging Infrastructure
12:49 The State of EV Adoption and Infrastructure
17:49 Global Perspectives on Clean Energy Innovations
23:42 Workforce Development in Clean Energy
29:47 ChargerHelp: Revolutionizing EV Charging Services
35:48 The Future of Clean Tech and Smart Cities
39:44 Navigating Political Challenges in Clean Energy
44:43 Personal Reflections and Insights from Kameale
49:36 Actionable Steps for Entering the Clean Tech Industry
This week on Stoppage Time with Uncle Rob we're diving deep into a concept we all know but often avoid: Tension.
But what if tension isn't just stress, discomfort, or friction? What if it's also fuel — for innovation, creative thinking, and breakthrough growth?
In this episode, Uncle Rob reflects on the everyday tensions we face as individuals, professionals, and citizens — from political polarization and economic pressure, to personal challenges in entrepreneurship and leadership. He shares inspiration from his time in Chile and the powerful ideas of Jugaad Innovation — where resourcefulness and resilience drive innovation from the ground up, not top-down.
📖 Check out the book “Jugaad Innovation: Think Frugal, Be Flexible, Generate Breakthrough Growth” by Navi Radjou: https://www.amazon.com/Jugaad-Innovation-Flexible-Generate-Breakthrough/dp/1118249747
We also explore how tension shows up in the lives of those breaking barriers and navigating new spaces — like this week’s guest, Marisa “Ritzy P” Estrada Rivera, who joins the conversation to talk about the tensions of identity, motherhood, advocacy, and showing up boldly in rooms that weren’t always built for her.
At its core, this episode is a reminder that tension is not the enemy — it’s an invitation. To think differently. To push boundaries. To stretch ourselves — and like a rubber band pulled beyond its limits — come out bigger, stronger, and more capable than before.
So if you're navigating your own crossroads, balancing dreams with pressure, or simply looking for a thoughtful pause in your week — this one's for you.
Tune in, reflect, and let's reframe tension as a powerful tool for progress.
Peace, love, and fresh perspective —
Uncle Rob
What happens when culture, community, emerging technology and storytelling collide? Vocal Leaders like Marisa happen, that’s what! In this vibrant conversation, Rob sits down with creative powerhouse Marisa "Ritzy P" Estrada Rivera to explore the power of diverse voices in media and the rise of podcasting within Latino communities. They chronicle her vast career, from the evolution of music festivals, the impact of AI and blockchain, Corporate Consulting, Public speaking and why representation and community are more crucial than ever. Whether you're a creator, a tech-curious listener, or someone passionate about making change—this episode is packed with inspiration and real talk.
Feel free to follow and engage with MARISA “RITZY” here:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritzyp/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ritzyp/
- Website: https://www.ritzyperiwinkle.com/
We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.
As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.
¡Cheers y gracias!,
Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Marisa "Ritzy" Estrada Rivera and Her Journey
06:06 Storytelling in Media and Entrepreneurship
08:49 The Need for Diverse Voices in Media
11:47 The Evolution of Music Festivals
15:05 The Future of Live Events and Technology
27:42 The Journey into Podcasting
30:21 Creating Meaningful Conversations
35:31 The Evolving Landscape of Podcasting
43:30 Diving into Web3 and Crypto
52:38 Community and Inclusion in Emerging Tech
55:58 Emerging Tech and Community Impact
01:00:50 AI: The Future of Technology
01:06:35 Balancing Activism and Personal Life
01:16:40 Advice for Aspiring Voices
Welcome to this week’s episode of Stoppage Time with Uncle Rob — a deep, honest, and hopeful reflection on where we are, where we’ve been, and the powerful people lighting the way forward.
Yes — the title is intentional. And yes — we are nine months into an administration that increasingly echoes authoritarian regimes of the past. But history shows us something important: progress always wins.
This episode is more than just political commentary — it’s a declaration of resilience, truth, and belief in the unstoppable force of people power. Uncle Rob reflects on the state of democracy, the erosion of First Amendment rights, and the ongoing cultural, legal, and moral battles we’re all witnessing here in the U.S.
But most importantly, this week’s conversation is full of hope — found in the stories of bold, brilliant women of color who are reshaping industries, challenging systems, and leading communities. You’ll hear from rising leaders like Amiah Sheppard, whose journey from foster care in Inglewood to the halls of Columbia University and USC is nothing short of incredible — and just one example of the kind of purpose-driven innovation that gives us hope.
If you need to feel inspired — genuinely inspired — by the kind of people who are building a better future in the face of political darkness, this episode is for you.
Tune in. Feel seen. Stay encouraged.
This is what optimistic resistance sounds like.
Peace. Joy. Love. And belief in the better days ahead.
— Uncle Rob
What do you do if you don’t see success stories that look like you? You forge your own path! In this episode of Entrepreneurial Thinkers, Rob visits with local LA powerhouse, Amiah Sheppard, a passionate advocate and Leader for student entrepreneurship programming at USC’s Greif Center for Entrepreneurial Studies and a renowned “storytelling/pitch” coach to entrepreneurs across the world through Sheppard Consulting. The two discuss how our next generation of young innovators are reshaping LA’s startup ecosystem, the real power of inclusive thinking, and why telling your story well might be the most important startup skill of all. Whether you're a budding founder, an investor hunting the next innovator or just curious about the future of innovation and growth in Los Angeles, this conversation is packed with insight, inspiration, and heart.
Feel free to follow and engage with AMIAH here:
We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.
As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.
¡Cheers y gracias!,
Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurial Thinkers
04:34 Exploring USC's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
07:44 The Role of Universities in Entrepreneurship
10:32 Programs and Resources at USC
13:21 Impact of USC on Los Angeles
16:29 Trends in Student Entrepreneurship
19:46 The Importance of Diversity in Entrepreneurship
22:28 Pitch Coaching and Storytelling
32:35 Journey into Venture Capital and Coaching
35:36 The Importance of Storytelling in Entrepreneurship
43:23 Challenges in Entrepreneurial Storytelling
47:38 The Role of Diversity in Entrepreneurship
51:35 Vision for the Future of Los Angeles
55:30 Key Elements of Effective Storytelling for Entrepreneurs
This week, we’re diving deep into something that’s been weighing heavily on my mind: the rise of the “attention economy” and the erosion of real expertise.
In a world where virality often trumps value, and followers are confused for wisdom, we’re asking some big questions:
When did being seen become more important than being qualified?
How did our societal obsession with clicks, likes, and soundbites replace depth, knowledge, and lived experience?
What happens when leadership, media, and influence are driven more by popularity than credibility?
But this isn’t just a rant — this is also a reminder.
We had the privilege of reconnecting with Ileana Gonzalez, Director of Emerging Technology & Innovation at retail giant H-E-B, in a conversation that reminded us what true innovation really looks like — rooted in family, trust, people, and culture. This episode is a masterclass in what it means to lead from the inside out, and how meaningful innovation isn’t about flashy headlines or viral clips — it’s about serving humanity.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the noise, exhausted by the race for attention, or disheartened by how we measure success today — this conversation is for you.
🔁 Long-form.
🧠 Thought-provoking.
❤️ Human-centered.
🎙️ Deeply honest.
Tune in, take a breath, and rediscover the beauty of slowing down, listening deeply, and valuing what truly matters.
Hit play, stay a while — this is the kind of conversation we need more of.
Ever wonder how your local grocery store is quietly becoming smarter, faster, and better at learning your personal needs? In this episode of Entrepreneurial Thinkers, Rob sits down with Ileana Gonzalez, Director of Emerging Technology and Innovation at 120 year old, family owned Retail giant, H-E-B from San Antonio, Texas, to explore how technology, culture, and community are reshaping retail from the inside out. From building coalitions at one of Texas's biggest retail companies to strengthening community ties in San Antonio and Mexico, Ileana shares real-world insights into innovation, leadership, and the human side of tech.
Feel free to follow and engage with ILEANA here:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ileanagonzxlez/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ileanagonzxlez/
- X: https://x.com/IleanaGonzxlez
- Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebnewsroom/
We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.
As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.
¡Cheers y gracias!,
Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.
Chapters
00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction to Retail Innovation
05:17 The Changing Grocery Experience
06:52 Innovating in a Family-Owned Business
11:35 Building Community and Culture at HEB
14:35 Understanding Consumer Needs
19:07 The Role of Technology in Retail
23:44 Employee Innovation and Partner Experience
25:12 What Makes HEB Stand Out?
26:49 HEB's Unique Opportunity in Mexico
28:03 Cross-Pollinating Innovation Across Borders
29:29 The Legacy of H-E-B and Community Impact
29:59 San Antonio's Entrepreneurial Landscape
34:06 Revitalizing Downtown San Antonio
35:23 Lessons from Leading TechBlock
38:27 Future Innovations at H-E-B
40:04 Building Relationships with Public and Private Sectors
43:02 Personal Growth and Future Aspirations
47:23 Creating Meaningful Partnerships
Welcome back to another powerful Friday session of Stoppage Time with Uncle Rob, where we slow it all down before heading into the weekend — and today, there’s a lot to unpack.
This week’s episode takes you on a full-spectrum ride — from the heartbreaking Supreme Court decision on race-based detentions in Southern California, to America’s addiction to political violence and guns, and the season wrap-up for our beloved LA Sparks and Angel City FC. But most of all… we dive deep into the real talk around Artificial Intelligence — what it means, where it’s taking us, and who’s shaping the future.
Is AI going to give us the dreamy, efficient life of The Jetsons?
Or are we sliding toward the cold, chaotic reality of The Terminator?
Joining me is the incredible Kyiana Williams — CEO of e.e.r.s. and Entertwine — who’s using AI to revolutionize both the entertainment industry and civic engagement. Together, we explore how her work bridges tech and humanity, and why the way we shape AI now will define whether it uplifts society… or leaves generations behind.
We talk about:
- What’s right and wrong with AI today
- How AI is already transforming jobs, government, and crises response
- The big corporate dilemma: growth without job creation
- What you can do to help shape this future — before it shapes us
This isn’t just a conversation — it’s a call to awareness. The future is coming fast. Whether we lean toward hope or fear, we need to understand the stakes.
So grab your favorite drink, get comfortable, and spend some quality stoppage time with me, Uncle Rob. Let’s think out loud, laugh a little, feel deeply, and face the future — together.
Tap play, hit subscribe, and let’s get into it.
What if technology rooted in the arts could save lives—and AI could help rebuild a more functional society? In this inspiring and insightful episode, entrepreneur and creative visionary Kyiana Williams shares her powerful journey from the arts to civic technology. She and Rob discuss how platforms like her companies, e.e.r.s. and Entertwine, are bridging the gap between creativity and employment and between everyday citizens need for better emergency response in crises and better government communication on a daily basis. They explore the future of AI, the importance of accessibility and products designed for everyone, as well as how technology can empower communities in times of crisis. Packed with wisdom for aspiring entrepreneurs, creatives, and policy makers, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone who wants to shape a more resilient, connected world.
Feel free to follow and engage with KYIANA here:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyiana-williams/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kywi_the_fruit/
- Website: https://www.entertwine.us/
- Website: https://eers.us/#home
We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.
As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.
¡Cheers y gracias!,
Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Connections
05:02 The Role of AI in Society
08:05 Entertainment and Technology: A Dual Perspective
13:52 The Importance of Creative Accessibility
19:38 Civic Engagement and Technology
25:36 The Value of Art in Society
27:34 The Evolution of the Entertainment Industry
32:25 The Future of Film and Television
38:22 Empowering Change Through Information
40:37 Introducing Ears: A New Resource for Communities
47:36 The Role of Technology in Emergency Situations
48:12 AI and Information Accessibility
49:22 Enhancing Communication During Crises
50:36 The Importance of Human Oversight in AI
52:04 Personalized Information Delivery Systems
54:02 Scalability of AI Solutions in Government
56:17 Language Accessibility in Emergency Communications
58:23 Business Opportunities for Civic Tech
01:00:27 Specialized AI Agents for Different Departments
01:02:20 The Human Element in Government Services
01:05:23 Embedding Technology in Government Operations
01:07:42 The Need for Efficient Communication Systems
01:10:07 Conclusion: Bridging the Gap in Civic Engagement
01:10:48 Empowering Communities Through Technology
01:13:42 Optimism Amidst Uncertainty
01:14:08 The Power of Collective Action
01:22:07 Advice for Multi-Project Entrepreneurs
Hey hey, it’s us—Hi! Back again to wrap the week with you, from sunny Los Angeles, where summer lingers while autumn creeps in elsewhere. In this special extended episode, we dive deep into the realities shaping our world—from political chaos and cultural uncertainty to the hopeful power of entrepreneurial thinking that continues to fuel our pragmatic optimism.
This week, we sat down with our brilliant friend and mentee Paco Valencia, live from his clinic in Morelia, Mexico, for an eye-opening conversation about the future of prosthetics. Imagine this: over 40 million people worldwide live with prosthetic limbs, yet the design behind them has remained practically untouched for 6,000 years. Paco and his team are changing that narrative—using AI and modern manufacturing to reimagine what’s possible for mobility, comfort, and human dignity.
But that's just one part of this powerful journey.
We also reflect on other inspiring voices from across the globe: from Tijuana’s economic revitalization with Adriana Eguia, to rethinking venture capital with Allison Byers, to climate investment in Spain, fintech in Mexico, small business support in Virginia, and clean energy innovation that’s leading the way across Latin America. Each conversation is a reminder that while parts of the world feel like they’re spinning out of control, there are extraordinary people building a better one.
This isn’t just a podcast. It’s a blueprint for hope.
So if you're looking for real talk, meaningful insights, and a little bit of soul to close out your week—pull up a chair. Let’s spend some time together.
What if losing a limb didn’t mean losing your independence? How many prosthetic (artificial limb) patients do you think there are in the world? In this eye-opening episode from Morelia, Mexico, Rob sits down with Francisco Valencia, CEO of Prothesia, to uncover how cutting-edge technology—like AI-driven design plus inclusive innovation and some entrepreneurial thinking about an industry that’s not changed much in 6000 years—is transforming the world of prosthetics for patients and their families. From the historical roots to the global inequalities in access presently, this conversation reveals how a startup company is reshaping healthcare and empowering lives across borders, while tapping a global market worth billions. Whether you're into tech, health, or love good storytelling, this one will inspire you to think differently about what’s possible.
Feel free to follow and engage with FRANCISCO here:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/franciscov/?originalSubdomain=mx
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paco_/?hl=en
- Instagram Business: https://www.instagram.com/prothesia3d/?hl=en
- Website: https://www.prothesia.com/
We're so grateful to you, our growing audience of entrepreneurs, investors and community leaders interested in the human stories of the Entrepreneurial Thinkers behind entrepreneurial economies worldwide.
As always we hope you enjoy each episode and Like, Follow, Subscribe or share with your friends. You can find our shows here, and our new Video Podcast, at “Entrepreneurial Thinkers” channel on YouTube. Plug in, relax and enjoy inspiring, educational and empowering conversations between Rob and our guests.
¡Cheers y gracias!,
Entrepreneurial Thinkers Team.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Entrepreneurial Thinkers
04:49 The Evolution of Prosthetics
07:53 Understanding Patient Experiences
10:36 The Global Prosthetics Market
13:32 Access Disparities in Prosthetics
16:20 Innovative Solutions for Accessibility
19:17 The Role of Community in Healthcare
22:24 The Vision Behind Prosthesia
24:57 Prosthesia's Business Model and Impact
28:01 Patient-Centric Care in Prosthetics
30:53 Financing and Accessibility Challenges
33:49 Future of Prosthetics and Community Support
36:56 Innovative Solutions for Prosthetic Access
38:03 Vision for the Future of Prosthetics
42:14 Scaling and Distribution in Prosthetic Care
44:26 Medical Tourism and Cross-Border Healthcare
46:02 Pioneering Pediatric Orthotics
54:46 The Future of AI in Prosthetics
01:00:34 Advice for Aspiring Health Tech Entrepreneurs