In this powerful and vulnerable episode of Founder Talk, we sit down with Chris Maliszewski, a leader turned first-time entrepreneur, who was on-site during the Highland Park mass shooting in 2022.
That moment and everything that came after, shattered his world, forced him to confront severe PTSD, and eventually led him down the path to building something new: a mission-driven business with healing and purpose at its core.
But this isn’t just a story about tragedy—it’s a story about transformation.
Here’s what you’ll take away as a founder:
✅ How trauma, grief, or setbacks can be a launchpad—if you give yourself the space to rebuild
✅ Why emotional storytelling isn’t just powerful in fundraising—it’s a tool to move customers, investors, and your team
✅ What it actually means to build a business around purpose and values—and how to do it without sacrificing revenue
✅ The case for “life-first” entrepreneurship: designing a company that gives you control, time freedom, and fulfillment
✅ Tactical tips for showing up differently in a saturated market—and building trust in a skeptical world
✅ A raw conversation about mental health and entrepreneurship—and why founders need to stop pretending they’re fine
If you’ve ever faced a breaking point in your business or life—and had to figure out how to come back stronger—this conversation will hit home.
This is what Founder Talk is all about: the real stuff, beyond the highlight reels.
Hit subscribe for more real founder conversations that go way beyond the highlight reel.
Where to Find Chris Zucchi
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