What does it really take to build wealth? Could the answer lie beyond traditional investments and into the realm of alternative assets and creative financial structuring? This episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast digs into that very question, challenging listeners to rethink what successful investing looks like in today’s ever-changing economic landscape. Guest Kelly Ann Winget, founder of Alternative Wealth Partners, brings a myriad of experience from five generations in oil and gas and over 250 private placements. Her innovative approach encompasses everything from managing diversified private equity funds to investing in sustainable consumer products, ammunition manufacturing, and even a Jamaican coffee farm—all while keeping a laser focus on tax strategy and long-term financial growth. Together, Marcia Dawood and Kelly Ann Winget unpack the nuts and bolts of alternative investments, the critical importance of tax credits, and what fund managers often overlook when serving individual investors. This episode is essential for entrepreneurs and investors ready to push past conventional wisdom, gain insider insights, and discover practical ways to maximize their wealth and investment impact.

What if entrepreneurship could fundamentally change how we experience aging—making it more joyful, independent, and connected? On this special “ICYMI Aging” episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood brings together highlights from interviews with three pioneering guests who are reinventing what it means to grow older. You’ll hear a recap of the insights from Dr. Kerry Burnight, who blends cutting-edge research and family wisdom to prevent elder abuse and loneliness; Hunter Ziesing, who uses tech and AI to personalize healthcare and empower people to own their wellbeing; and Bruce Simpson, an investor building the largest age tech marketplace to help seniors stay independent and financially secure. If you’re curious about the future of aging, entrepreneurship, and technology’s role in all of it, this episode will give you the highlights. When it comes to aging, having proactive strategies, community, and smart innovations can help us all thrive—at any age.

What does true innovation in entrepreneurship look like when the problem seems too big for conventional solutions? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Dillon Baxter, co-founder of PlantSwitch, to explore how determination and creativity can drive next-generation solutions in the sustainability space. Dillon shares his journey from college athlete to entrepreneur, revealing how an interest in plastic alternatives led to the founding of PlantSwitch: a company now producing affordable, truly biodegradable cutlery and food packaging. He discusses strategic decisions like building manufacturing capacity in North Carolina, then rapidly expanding to China to fulfill major contracts such as with Walmart and Taylor Farms. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the practical realities of scaling a startup, protecting your technology, and finding product-market fit in a complex industry. Dillon’s story offers actionable insights and inspiration for founders and innovators looking to turn ambitious ideas into real-world impact.

What if the key to entrepreneurial success isn’t following a straight path, but embracing the unexpected turns along the way? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood is joined by Madeline Reeves, a dynamic entrepreneur whose journey from aspiring pediatric oncologist to fintech leader and founder of Fearless Foundry challenges our assumptions about what it means to build a career—and a business—on your own terms. Madeline draws from her rich background in business development, creative consulting, and tech to share her experiences breaking into male-dominated industries and tackling challenges like workplace bias. Her story serves as a reminder that resilience, curiosity, and a willingness to rewrite the rules can shape not just businesses, but also lives. Throughout the episode, you’ll hear practical insights on building authentic brands, leveraging strategic marketing, and thoughtfully integrating AI into creative processes. Madeline also dives into critical conversations around algorithmic bias and the importance of women shaping the future of technology. This is a must-listen for anyone looking for honest, actionable advice on modern entrepreneurship and the courage to do things differently.

What if the greatest barrier to building a profitable business isn’t just strategy or hustle, but the way you think about—and manage—your money? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood is joined by Melissa Houston, a seasoned CPA, entrepreneur, and author on a mission to close the financial literacy gap, especially for women business owners. Melissa Houston shares her journey from corporate accounting to launching "She Means Profit," writing "Cash Confident," and developing the ProfiVise app—all aimed at helping entrepreneurs truly understand their financials and boost profitability. Her approach empowers founders to shift their mindset, master vital numbers, and confidently manage their business finances. Listeners will walk away with actionable tips from Melissa’s five-step Cash Confident framework, learn how to avoid money leaks, and gain insight into setting effective prices. With tools and mindset shifts tailored for entrepreneurs at every stage, this episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to move beyond break-even to achieving real, lasting business success.

What if your money journey depended less on spreadsheets and more on rewriting the personal stories you tell yourself about money? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia challenges listeners to rethink the narratives that influence their financial decisions, arguing that self-awareness is the first step toward genuine, purpose-driven wealth building. Marcia, author of Do Good While Doing Well, returns solo to announce her new book, Unapologetic Wealth: Rewrite Your Money Story, which is set to release in March 2026. Drawing from interactions with women around the globe, she shares how underlying beliefs—handed down from family or shaped by culture—can either limit or unlock our financial confidence and investing potential. The episode offers a sneak peek into the new book’s focus on “financial fluidity,” or using money as a tool aligned with your own values, free of guilt. It's a must-listen for anyone ready to leave behind apologetic money stories and embrace entrepreneurial growth with clarity, confidence, and intention.

Have you ever considered what lessons counterterrorism could offer to the world of entrepreneurship? In this fascinating episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Niccola Milnes to uncover the surprising parallels between building a startup and combating extremism. The conversation kicks off with a thought-provoking look at how understanding the spread of ideas, from dangerous ideologies to innovative products, can be crucial to startup success. Niccola Milnes brings a truly unique perspective to the table. With 14 years of experience in counterterrorism across Africa, Niccola has devoted her career to analyzing how extremist organizations effectively spread their messages and recruit followers. Now a founder, she’s turned her analytical skills toward the wellness industry, launching the children’s supplement brand Little Boosties. Her journey from data-driven counterterrorism analysis to product development offers not just an unusual story, but real strategies for entrepreneurs. This episode dives deep into how psychological tools, network effects, and trust-building—techniques honed in counterterrorism—are also the foundation of ethical and powerful marketing. Niccola shares first-hand insights on launching a purpose-driven company, the critical importance of community, and why transparency and integrity must undergird every decision. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or just curious about how cross-disciplinary thinking can spark innovation, this candid conversation is a must-listen. It challenges assumptions and offers actionable advice for anyone looking to authentically engage their audience and build something meaningful.

Invisible systems like algorithms play a powerful role in entrepreneurial success, shaping who gets access to opportunities and who does not. On this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood dives into the world of gender bias, equitable AI, and economic justice with a fresh, thought-provoking lens, challenging listeners to rethink the foundations of modern entrepreneurship. Guest Katica Roy is a gender economist, tech CEO, and advocate whose family history—rooted in stories of immigration and resilience—fuels her mission for equity. From her own battles for fair pay as a breadwinner mother to being featured in the New York Times, Katica commands a unique and powerful voice on dismantling barriers in the workplace and beyond. Together, Marcia and Katica explore how algorithmic bias perpetuates inequality, and most importantly, what all of us can do to foster change, both individually and systemically. Packed with actionable insights and a sense of urgency, this episode is a must-listen for anyone invested in creating a fairer, more innovative future in business and tech.

What if entrepreneurship wasn’t just about building businesses, but about creating real financial access and opportunity—especially for those traditionally left out of the conversation? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood invites listeners to consider where everyday investors, particularly women, can find their seat at the crypto table and gain the knowledge and confidence to participate. Marcia’s guest, Elaine Asher, is the founder of EVE Wealth—a pioneering platform designed to demystify the world of cryptocurrency investing for women and anyone intimidated by the crypto space. Drawing on her extensive background at JPMorgan and years of experience in crypto asset management, Elaine shares her journey from private wealth management to becoming an advocate for democratizing access to emerging technologies. Her drive stems from firsthand experience seeing men reap life-changing gains in crypto, while women remain underrepresented and underserved. This episode offers an engaging, accessible, and jargon-free breakdown of crypto basics, the importance of diversification, and the difference between stablecoins and cryptocurrencies. Elaine gives a behind-the-scenes look at EVE Wealth’s mission, how it works, and why she’s passionate about building a supportive community where women (and all curious investors) can learn and invest with confidence. Listeners will come away with actionable insights, a much clearer understanding of crypto investing, and inspiration to take charge of their financial future. If you want to understand the potential of digital assets while empowering yourself or your community, this is a must-listen.

What if the real key to economic growth lies in unlocking the entrepreneurial talents of those who have long been overlooked? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood talks with Corinne Goble, CEO of the Association of Women’s Business Centers (AWBC), about the challenges and opportunities facing women, veterans, and other emerging business owners. Corinne’s journey, from growing up in her mom’s trucking company to leading a national nonprofit network, gives her a rare, insider perspective on what entrepreneurs truly need to succeed. She shares how initiatives like Hope2Women.org, Biz2Grow.org and VeteranStartup.org make business resources, funding guidance, and technical assistance more accessible, while breaking down the confusing jargon that often presents a barrier. If you’re looking for practical advice and inspiration, this episode delivers. With honest conversation about the hurdles of funding, the importance of confidence backed by data, and the power of strong networks, this is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and anyone eager to fuel the next wave of inclusive innovation.

How can all of us build a life where joy and connection are just as valued as success and productivity? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia explores how embracing the lessons of intentional aging can inform not only our personal lives but also the way we approach business and community. Dr. Kerry Burnight, acclaimed as "America's Gerontologist," joins the show to discuss her decades of experience studying aging, elder care, and the vital role of social connection in achieving a thriving, long life. Her work, including her bestselling book "Joyspan," brings practical strategies and uplifting stories that resonate across generations. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to future-proof their well-being while discovering meaning in the present. You'll discover how intentional connection can protect against isolation, why joy is a critical success metric, and actionable insights that will empower you, at any age, to live and lead with purpose.

How can entrepreneurs transform the challenges of an aging population into powerful opportunities for innovation? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood welcomes Bruce Simpson, a longtime McKinsey leader and now co-founder of AgeTech Capital, to discuss the rapidly growing world of age tech. Bruce shares his global perspective and deep experience in building new companies and catalyzing tech-driven change in healthcare and beyond. With AgeTech Capital, he’s developing an investment ecosystem focused on supporting technology that benefits people over 50, combining health, financial security, and independent living with cutting-edge AI and data-driven solutions. Listeners get an inside look at emerging startups, funding models for angel investors, and why channeling entrepreneurial energy into age tech is both a social imperative and a huge opportunity. If you’re passionate about investing, tech, or building a better future for all ages, this episode offers practical insight and inspiration you won’t want to miss.

What compels an entrepreneur to leave a successful Wall Street career and dive into the complexities of healthcare innovation? On this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood welcomes Hunter Ziesing, who shares his journey from investment banking to co-founding Longevity Health, a company at the forefront of using AI and clinical data to transform personalized wellness. Hunter’s story is rooted in personal experience and a deep commitment to preventative health. After twenty years in finance and a transformative period working with Livestrong, he co-founded Longevity Health, which aims to centralize and analyze individual health data to enable proactive, personalized care. This episode is a compelling look at how AI, emerging tech, and behavioral science are converging in healthcare. Hunter explains the pitfalls of America’s “sick care” model, the importance of democratizing health data, and the need for both financial and social incentives to drive healthier choices. If you’re curious about the future of aging, digital health, or entrepreneurial grit in mission-driven startups, this conversation is a must-listen.

What does it truly take to succeed as an entrepreneur—is it relentless hard work, adaptability, or the ability to receive support from others? In this “In Case You Missed It” episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood recaps standout moments from recent conversations with three trailblazing women, each offering unique lessons on building a thriving business. The episode features Marcia giving highlights from the past episodes of Angie Bastian, who grew Boom Chicka Pop from a garage-based popcorn operation into a $250 million brand; Martha Carlin, the determined founder of BiotaQuest, who transformed her personal experience with her husband's Parkinson's into mission-driven health innovation; and Andrea Quinn, a women’s mindset coach dedicated to helping female entrepreneurs embrace the art of receiving and support. Packed with actionable wisdom and motivational stories, this episode makes it easy to catch up on the best advice from each guest, providing both inspiration and strategies you can use right away.

What if the real obstacle to entrepreneurship isn’t your skill set or background, but the beliefs you hold about money? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Barbara Huson—a celebrated financial expert and the author of seven books—to challenge the limiting money stories that hold women back from investing, building wealth, and stepping fully into their power. Barbara shares her personal journey from financial intimidation and crisis to empowerment, offering relatable anecdotes and the wisdom she’s gained from interviewing hundreds of financially successful women. Her expertise shines as she uncovers the neuroscience behind changing your money mindset, and how simple, purposeful steps can transform your financial trajectory. This episode is packed with actionable strategies, including Barbara’s “recognize, reframe, and respond” method for rewiring your thinking, and her approachable daily, weekly, and monthly habits for getting smart about money. If you’ve ever felt daunted by investing or unsure if building wealth is for you, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to take control—making it a must-listen for anyone seeking confidence in their financial journey.

What does it truly mean to be an entrepreneur or an investor—not just in terms of dollars and deals, but in the way we think about money, wealth, and possibility? In this special rebranding episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood invites us to pause and reconsider our most fundamental beliefs about investing and wealth. With over 130 episodes under her belt, Marcia prompts listeners to reflect on the invisible barriers that keep so many—especially women and those from underrepresented backgrounds—on the sidelines of early stage investing. This 7-minute episode features Marcia herself at the helm, sharing insights from her journey as a longtime angel investor, author, and advocate for democratizing access to capital. Fresh off publishing her book "Do Good While Doing Well," Marcia brings a wealth of experience and perspective to the conversation. She speaks candidly about the responses she’s received from both investors and entrepreneurs, highlighting the deep need for education, community, and personal reflection around financial topics that historically have been shrouded in jargon and exclusionary language. At its core, this episode marks a pivotal shift for the podcast as Marcia announces a reimagined focus—expanding the narrative beyond technical investing tips to encompass conversations about money, personal beliefs, systemic barriers, and new definitions of wealth. With "wealth reimagined" now part of the show's branding, listeners can look forward to richer, more inclusive explorations of what it means to invest, support founders, and use money as a force for good. This is a must-listen for anyone—whether you’re a founder, an aspiring investor, or simply curious about financial empowerment—who wants to be part of shaping a more conscious, equitable, and impactful future.

What does it really take to carve out space for a new business in an industry dominated by giants? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Kimberly Evans, the inspiring founder and CEO of Just Her Rideshare, a women-centric rideshare service focused on safety, community, and empowerment. Kimberly shares her personal story of why she created Just Her Rideshare, drawing from her own experiences and deep commitment to serving women who often feel vulnerable using traditional rideshare options. As a fourth-generation entrepreneur, she talks candidly about the challenges of fundraising, the lessons learned from bootstrapping, and the value of staying connected to the community at every stage of growth. If you’re passionate about startups, social impact, or want to understand the realities of building something new against the odds, this episode is a must-listen. Kimberly’s journey is filled with actionable insights on fundraising, effective marketing, and the power of focusing on community—offering inspiration and practical advice to founders and investors alike. And don’t forget you can also participate in the Wefunder crowdfunding campaign to support Just Her Rideshare. https://wefunder.com/justherrideshare/

What happens when an entrepreneur turns their biggest fear—asking for money—into their secret weapon for success? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood sits down with Maria Springer, founder of Capital Department, to discuss how founders can overcome fundraising anxiety and unlock new paths to capital. Maria’s journey began in the social enterprise world of East Africa, where she quickly learned that mastering fundraising was vital to making an impact. Her hard-won expertise now powers Capital Department, a firm that has helped startups secure over $200 million, with a special emphasis on fueling growth through innovative community rounds and crowdfunding. This episode is essential listening for startup founders and investors alike. Maria and Marcia dive into how narrative and organization are key to successful fundraising, the evolving landscape of crowdfunding, and why engaging your community is more powerful than ever. If you want practical fundraising advice and insider stories—like how Pirouette outperformed Substack with a record-setting raise—this conversation is packed with takeaways you won’t want to miss.

What does it truly take to transform a simple side hustle into a nationally recognized brand—and what if you could change lives along the way? In this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia invites Angie Bastian, co-founder of the beloved snack brand BOOMCHICKAPOP, to share the remarkable journey of building a business from the family garage all the way to a multimillion-dollar acquisition. Angie’s story challenges the traditional image of entrepreneurship, laying bare both the financial scrambles and the deeply human rewards that accompany the pursuit of a dream. Angie Bastian, who, along with her husband, Dan, started popping kettle corn in 2001 to help fund their children’s college education, never imagined she’d become a leader in the natural foods movement. With no prior business experience—Angie was a nurse, her husband a teacher—the Bastians hustled at farmers markets, connected with local sports teams, and relentlessly pushed through setbacks to turn their “Angie’s Kettle Corn” into the global phenomenon BOOMCHICKAPOP. Angie’s dedication to transparency, clean ingredients, and her community sets her apart as an entrepreneurial role model. This episode is packed with invaluable lessons as Angie details the scrappy financing tactics, the reimagining of their brand, the leap to building their own manufacturing plant, and the deep impact of sharing success with their employees. It’s a candid conversation about perseverance, integrity, and redefining what business can mean for families and communities. And don’t miss the tear-jerking story Angie tells at the end of the episode – it’s a true heart warmer.

What if the real secret to entrepreneurial success isn’t about doing more, but about learning how to genuinely receive support and harness your inner resources? On this episode of The Angel Next Door Podcast, host Marcia Dawood welcomes Andrea Quinn, celebrated coach and author of The Quinn Essentials, to explore the essential mindset shifts that help women founders thrive both personally and professionally. Andrea Quinn draws on 18 years of coaching and her groundbreaking curriculum, The Quinn Essentials—a set of nine tools that empower women to unlock creativity, manage energy, and pursue their ambitions authentically. Her hands-on experience with thousands of women adds depth and practical wisdom to the conversation. Listeners will enjoy a high-impact discussion covering the power of receiving, business mindset, and the value of visualization and supportive communities. This is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and leaders seeking real strategies to overcome burnout, cultivate resilience, and achieve meaningful, sustainable growth.